Pakistan Moves Closer to Regulating Outer Space: First Draft of National Space Framework Completed

In a major step toward organizing its rapidly growing space sector, Pakistan has completed the first draft of a comprehensive Space Regulatory Framework — a landmark initiative that could shape the country’s space activities for years to come.

The Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board (PSARB), the central body responsible for overseeing space-related matters, has circulated the draft among key government entities for consultation. Agencies such as the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) and the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) are now reviewing the document and expected to provide feedback before it moves to the next stage.

A Blueprint for Pakistan’s Space Future

This regulatory blueprint lays out detailed policies across a broad range of space domains, including satellite communication, earth observation technologies, navigation systems, and even space transport mechanisms. According to sources familiar with the document, the framework is built on global best practices and is designed to bring Pakistan in line with international space governance norms.

Crucially, it introduces a licensing regime for commercial space services, outlines safety and risk mitigation protocols, and sets up a formal system for coordinating satellite frequencies and orbital slots — essential for avoiding interference and ensuring compliance with international agreements.

The draft also tackles modern-day challenges such as cybersecurity, data privacy, and transparency in commercial space ventures — areas that have become increasingly critical as private players enter the global space race.

International Collaboration in the Mix

To help craft this complex regulatory landscape, PSARB enlisted the support of UK-based consultancy Access Partnership, signing a formal agreement in March 2025. The firm has been advising on how to foster a competitive, investor-friendly environment while safeguarding national interests.

Once feedback from stakeholders is incorporated, the final version of the framework will be submitted to the federal government for approval — potentially paving the way for a structured and secure space sector in Pakistan.

Part of a Bigger Space Strategy

This move is not happening in isolation. It follows the December 2023 approval of Pakistan’s National Space Policy and the enforcement of Space Activities Rules in early 2024. Together, these initiatives represent a clear shift in Islamabad’s approach to space: from an exploratory focus to one of structured development and regulation.

PSARB, operating under the powerful National Command Authority, now serves as the primary gatekeeper for all space-related activities in the country. Under current rules, any entity — whether local or foreign — must register with PSARB before it can apply for a license from the PTA to offer satellite-based services.

Private Sector Interest Already Growing

The commercial potential of Pakistan’s satellite internet market hasn’t gone unnoticed. Major global players, including SpaceX’s Starlink, have shown interest. Starlink, which initially applied for entry in 2022, was granted a temporary No Objection Certificate (NOC) earlier this year. However, it will need to reapply under the soon-to-be-finalized regulatory framework once it becomes law.

Looking Ahead

With plans for a lunar mission by 2035 already in the pipeline, Pakistan’s ambitions in space are becoming more than just symbolic. The creation of a regulatory framework signals a critical shift toward making those ambitions sustainable, secure, and internationally credible.

The finalization and implementation of this framework could open the door not only to greater foreign investment but also to stronger oversight and innovation in one of the most technically demanding frontiers of the modern era.