Seattle, already a dominant force in satellite manufacturing, is now positioning itself to become a global center for space diplomacy. An initiative led by the University of Washington seeks to leverage the region's industrial strength to foster international dialogue on the policies and regulations that will govern the future of space.
This push comes as the Greater Seattle area solidifies its reputation as a space industrial hub. In 2024 alone, an estimated 90% of all satellites launched into space were either designed or built in the region. With Washington state responsible for manufacturing more than half of the satellites currently in orbit, local leaders believe the city is uniquely positioned to guide conversations on space law, security, and cooperation.
Key Takeaways
- Seattle is leveraging its dominance in satellite manufacturing to become a center for space diplomacy.
- The University of Washington's Space Diplomacy Symposium is a key initiative driving this effort.
- The symposium brings together experts from military, commercial, and academic sectors to discuss space policy.
- Topics include cybersecurity in space, the regulation of megaconstellations, and the biological challenges of long-term space habitation.
From Manufacturing Hub to Diplomatic Center
The effort to establish Seattle as a diplomatic hub is spearheaded by Saadia Pekkanen, a professor of international studies at the University of Washington. She is the founding director of two key programs: the Space Law, Data and Policy Program (SPACE LDP) and the Program on Strategy, Policy, and Diplomacy Research (SPDR). In 2023, Pekkanen launched the annual Space Diplomacy Symposium (SDS) to create a dedicated platform for these critical discussions.
"I want the world, not just our nation, to pay attention to what’s going on in Seattle’s industry," Pekkanen stated. Her vision is for Seattle to be known not just for building the hardware that goes into orbit, but also for shaping the rules that govern its use.
Seattle's Satellite Dominance
Washington state's contribution to the space industry is significant. The state manufactured over 50% of the satellites currently orbiting Earth and is projected to eventually produce more than 75% of the world's satellites.
Pekkanen believes that technological capability is only one part of the equation. "It's important to have capabilities, but it's also important to position those capabilities in a very fiercely competitive international system," she explained. The goal is to advance these technologies in a way that benefits the local community and international partners.
A Global Platform for Space Dialogue
The Space Diplomacy Symposium serves as the cornerstone of this initiative. By establishing the event, Pekkanen noted that the University of Washington now has a unique standing platform, as it was the first of its kind. The symposium gathers international thought leaders to address the next generation of regulatory and policy challenges in space.
This year’s event featured Esther Brimmer, a senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations, as the keynote speaker. The symposium also included representatives from the Cabinet Office of Japan, the U.S. Space Force, and the Space Law Council of Australia and New Zealand, highlighting its international scope.
One of Pekkanen's primary motivations was to break down the silos that often exist within academia and industry. The symposium brings together experts from law, international studies, astronomy, and medicine to foster a more holistic approach to space policy.
Diverse Topics for a Complex Domain
The discussions at the symposium reflect the multifaceted nature of modern space activities. The agenda is designed to move beyond simplistic views of space as a domain of either pure exploration or conflict.
"It’s fiction that space has nothing to do with war, or that it only has to do with prosperity. This is a dual-use technology that cuts across both."
To address this complexity, the symposium is organized into specific themes. Panels focus on key areas requiring diplomatic attention:
- Military Space Diplomacy: This panel, led by cybersecurity expert Jessica Beyer, focuses on the security challenges in space, including protecting satellite networks from cyber threats.
- Megaconstellations: Hosted by astronomer James Davenport, this discussion addresses the logistical and regulatory issues posed by large networks of satellites, such as those used for global internet service.
- Commercial Diplomacy: Moderated by bioethicist Amy Hinterberger, this section explores the medical and biological challenges of sustaining human life in space, a critical factor for future commercial space travel and habitation.
The Future of Space Governance
As commercial and state-sponsored activities in space accelerate, the need for clear rules and diplomatic channels becomes more urgent. Issues like space debris, satellite traffic management, and the potential for conflict in orbit require international cooperation. Seattle's initiative aims to provide a neutral ground for these conversations.
Why Diplomacy in Space Matters
With thousands of new satellites being launched, the risk of collisions and interference is growing. International agreements are needed to manage satellite orbits, assign radio frequencies, and establish rules of behavior to prevent misunderstandings and conflict. Diplomacy provides the framework for creating and upholding these vital regulations.
By connecting its powerful industrial base with academic and policy experts, Seattle hopes to lead the way in developing practical solutions. The symposium is not just a forum for discussion but a workshop for building the diplomatic foundation for a sustainable future in space.
Pekkanen sees the initiative as a source of optimism. "It’s space! Who is not interested?" she remarked. "It’s a hopeful vision. It gives people hope that we can build something and sustain something good not just for our community, but also nationally and internationally."
The next Space Diplomacy Symposium is scheduled for November 7, 2025, as Seattle continues to build its credentials as the world's capital for space policy and diplomacy.