Space Sustainability Research Fellowship 2026

Secure World Foundation (SWF) is a think tank dedicated to the sustainable and peaceful uses of outer space, with extensive engagement across COPUOS, national space agencies, and the international space governance community. The 2026 Space Sustainability Research Fellowship supports original, policy-relevant research on key space governance challenges. This year's two Fellows will explore: Evaluating Models for Private Sector Participation in International Governance for Space Safety and Space Traffic Coordination. Fellows will examine how governance frameworks from aviation, maritime, and telecommunications sectors can inform multi-stakeholder approaches to space traffic management and orbital safety. Fellows may work in-person at SWF offices or remotely. The programme is open to applicants worldwide and culminates in a publishable report and executive summary.

Background in space policy, international law, space governance, or a closely related field Research proposal of up to 400 words addressing the 2026 fellowship theme Current CV demonstrating relevant research or policy experience Ability to produce a final report of professional publication quality within approximately four months Open to applicants worldwide