In 2017, Sapienza University of Rome hosted the XXVI Edition of the ESA/ECSL Summer Course on Space Law and Policy, which brought together 42 students worldwide for an intensive two-week program.
On that occasion, Sergio Marchisio shared his thoughts on the importance of this initiative in fostering knowledge and awareness of the legal framework governing outer space activities with Radio Sapienza microphones.
A hub for international collaboration
Marchisio emphasized that internationalization is a key goal for Sapienza, and the Summer Course represents a unique opportunity for students to engage with peers from various European universities. The program is designed to immerse participants in discussions on space law and policy, enabling them to establish connections with space institutions and industry representatives.
During the course, students had the chance to visit the Italian Space Agency (ASI), where they met President Roberto Battistion, and Thales Alenia Space headquarters in L’Aquila, where they observed satellite component manufacturing, gaining firsthand experience of the space sector beyond astronautic achievements.
Expanding Space Law education
Beyond the Summer Course, Marchisio underlined Sapienza’s continued commitment to space law education. The Space Law course offered by the Department of Political Sciences serves as an excellent introduction to this field, allowing students to explore the legal and policy aspects of space activities in an international context. Taught entirely in English, the course provides the foundation for students to consider entering this field professionally, where legal expertise is increasingly in demand.
The relevance of the Outer Space Treaty
A key topic of discussion in the interview was the Outer Space Treaty (OST, 1967), which marked its 50th anniversary in 2017. That year, revisionist trends emerged under the Trump administration and boosted discussions in the U.S. Senate on whether the OST adequately serves commercial space interests. However, despite these debates, Marchisio highlighted how the foundational principles of the Treaty continue to provide a stable legal framework for both public and private space activities. Ultimately, the hearing concluded with the decision not to revise the Treaty, reaffirming its enduring relevance.
To read or listen to the full interview, click here!
Credit: Radio Sapienza Università di Roma
