SHAPING THE FUTURE OF SPACE:
"The future is not what it used to be"
(Mark Strand)
Fiera Roma, HALL 10
With the title “Shaping the Future – The Future is Not What It Used to Be”, the 2025 edition will focus on technological innovation, regulatory evolution, new market dynamics, and strategic partnerships that are redefining space as an enabling domain for global development, security, and sustainability.
The opening day will set the stage by exploring how the rapid evolution of satellite applications and the strategic role of scientific research are essential to ensuring technological leadership and security. This will be followed by a discussion on the outcomes of ESA CM2025 and their implications for the future of space activities. The day will conclude by highlighting the next frontier of space exploration, resource utilization, and the emergence of new space economies enabled by public-private partnerships.
The second day will focus on the regulatory, economic, and technological enablers of the space ecosystem. Key sessions will address the new Italian Space Economy Law (Law No. 89/2025) and its interaction with the upcoming EU Space Act, examining new principles of liability, mandatory insurance for space operators, and contractual frameworks for space operations. Discussions will also explore Space Satellite Accounts as tools to measure the sector’s economic impact, trends in Access to Space and launch infrastructures, and the strategic role of Space Human Capital in building a skilled and diverse workforce.
Afternoon panels will highlight synergies between space and the blue economy, as well as the transformative potential of AI and quantum technologies. Further discussions will examine how public-private partnerships can facilitate commercialization and growth, how industrial associations promote innovation and global competitiveness, and how space operations security is becoming an increasingly central issue.
The final day will begin with a focus on the role of the private sector in the new space economy, followed by sessions on long-term sustainability and the human dimension of space. Key topics will include the sustainable use of orbital and planetary environments, human health, and biomedicine in spaceflight. The spotlight will then shift to themes related to Earth Observation and initiatives such as the IRIDE constellation. Also on the final day, a pitch competition will be held for startups operating in the downstream segment of the Space Economy, with a particular focus on the development, deployment, and commercialization of services and applications based on Earth Observation (EO) data .
Across all three days, NSE 2025 will provide a comprehensive platform for policy dialogue, technological exchange, and market development, fostering collaboration among governments, agencies, industries, and research institutions. The event aims to contribute to the building of a resilient, secure, sustainable, and innovative space economy in Europe and globally.
DAY ONE
Wednesday 10th December 2025
10.00 AM
REGISTRATION
Moderator:
Giancarla Rondinelli, Journalist
10.30 AM
WELCOME REMARKS
Luca Voglino, Managing Director, Investimenti SpA, Holding Company of Fiera Roma
Lorenzo Tagliavanti, President, Rome Chamber of Commerce
Pietro Piccinetti, Head of Internationalization Unit AEFI
10.45 AM
Roberta Angelilli, Vice President, Lazio Region
Matteo Zoppas, President ITA Italian Trade Agency*
Luca Del Monte, Head of Commercialization Department, ESA
Luigi Riggio, Head of Space and Aerospace Policy Unit, Office of Military Advisor, Italian Presidency of the Council of Ministers
Timo Pesonen, Director General, EU Commission, Directorate for Defence, Industry and Space
Andrea Mascaretti, Member of the Italian Parliament, President IPSE
Isabella Rauti, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Defence*
MAECI Representative
Teodoro Valente, President, ASI, Italian Space Agency
Adolfo Urso, Italian Minister of Enterprises and Made in Italy
12.00 AM
ROUND TABLE
POWERING SYNERGIES FOR THE GROWTH OF SPACE INDUSTRY
Roberto Aceti, CEO OHB Italia
Davide Avino, CEO Argotec
Andrea Bellini, SVP Commercial & Business Development, Telespazio
Massimo Comparini,Managing Director, Leonardo Space Division
Giampiero Di Paolo, CEO Thales Alenia Space Italy
Giulio Ranzo, CEO Avio
D-Orbit Representative
AFTERNOON SESSION
2.00 PM
THE NEW FRONTIER OF SPACE DATA: LAZIO INTEGRATION HUB FOR THE NEW SPACE ECONOMY
Organized by Lazio Region
Moderator:
Francesco Marcolini, President, Lazio Innova
Roberta Angelilli, Vice President, Lazio Region
Francesco Marcolini, President, Lazio Innova
Andrea Taramelli, User National Forum – Copernicus
Luigi Riggio, Head of Space and Aerospace Policy Units, Office of the Military Advisor, Presidency of the Italian Council of Ministers
Augusto Cramarossa, Head of Strategic Coordination Office, ASI
Marco Stendardo, Head of the Economic Development Area, UNINDUSTRIA
Leonardo SpA Representative*
3.00 PM
EVOLUTION OF NEXT GENERATION SATCOM SYSTEM: FUTURE CHALLENGES AND MARKET OPPORTUNITIES
Satellite communications are undergoing a profound technological and commercial transformation. The shift from traditional geostationary (Geo) satellites to emerging low Earth orbit (Leo) and medium Earth orbit (Meo) constellations is driven by the need to reduce latency and deliver more efficient global connectivity.
This panel will explore how new constellation initiatives, hybrid networks, and integrated solutions are reshaping the future of global connectivity, with far-reaching implications for defence, industry, and civil society.
Moderator:
Giuseppe Codispoti, Senior Program Manager, Telecommunication and Navigation Division, ASI
Roberto Capua, Head of NavCom, Leonardo
Antonio Caruso, Chief Cyber Operations Division at Italian Network Operations Command, Italian Air Force
Domenico Mignolo, Head of Technology and Products Division, ARTES Core Competitiveness Programme Manager, Directorate of Connectivity & Secure Communications, ESA
Antonio Sturiale, Domain Telecommunication Italy, Thales Alenia Space
3.50 PM
THE ROLE OF RESEARCH FOR SPACE ECONOMY AND SECURITY
Scientific research is a key factor for competitiveness and security in space. It drives technological innovation, supports national security, and enhances the competitiveness of the space sector. It promotes new applications, services, and cost efficiencies in areas such as satellite technology, space logistics, and data services. In the field of security, research underpins progress in intelligence, communications, and space traffic management.
This session will highlight the vital contributions of academic institutions and research centres to the growth and resilience of the space ecosystem.
Moderator:
Francesca Galli, Head of Unit within the Cabinet Office of MUR, Italian Ministry of University and Research
Roberto Ragazzoni, President INAF
Roberta Sparvoli, Director INFN Roma Tor Vergata, Professor at Tor Vergata University
Alessandro Dodaro, Head of the Nuclear Department, ENEA
Salvatore Stramondo, Head of the Earthquakes Department, INGV
CNR Representative*
CRUI Representative*
4.40 PM
RESULTS OF ESA CM2025 / Next EU MFF (2028–34)
ESA Ministerial Council 2025: Strategic Decisions for Europe’s Space Future.
The ESA CM2025 brings together 23 Member States in Bremen this November to approve the new programs of the European Space Agency, with the awareness that the decisions taken at ESA CM2025 will shape the future of the European Space Economy.
The session will also address issues related to the EU Multiannual Financial Framework for 2028–2034 and its interconnections with the space sector.
The panel will explore the strategic implications of CM2025, including European governance, industrial return mechanisms, and Europe’s position in the global space landscape.
Moderator:
Emma Gatti, European correspondent, SpaceNews
Luca Del Monte, Head of Commercialization Department, ESA
Luigi Riggio, Head of Space and Aerospace Policy Units, Office of the Military Advisor, Presidency of the Italian Council of Ministers
Maria Fernandez-Molinero, Head of Space Policy Unit, European Commission
Danilo Rubini, Technology Specialist, ASI
5.00 PM
WHAT WILL THE NEXT SPACE EXPLORATION BRING TO THE SPACE COMMUNITY
A new era of space exploration is opening, with a focus on establishing a sustainable presence and expanding the economy beyond Earth. Driven by ambitious scientific missions and dynamic public–private partnerships, the next phase of exploration will shift the focus from mere discovery to long-term habitation, resource utilisation, and the development of new space economies.
These initiatives will redefine the global space community, from establishing permanent bases on the Moon and Mars to leveraging space technologies to address critical challenges on Earth.
This panel will explore how future exploration efforts will open new technological and economic frontiers and shape the next chapter of humanity’s journey into space.
Moderator: Walter Villadei, Astronaut, Italian Air Force
Roberto Angelini, Director Exploration and Science, Thales Alenia Space Italy
Gabriele Mascetti, Head of Systems and scientific projects for Exploration Sector, Exploration and Orbital infrastructures, ASI
Vincenzo Giorgio, CEO Altec
Manlio Di Stefano, Director of International Markets, AXIOM Space
Didier Schmitt, Future Preparation Group Leader, ESA
DAY TWO
Thursday 11th December 2025
MORNING SESSION
9.00 AM
THE NEW ITALIAN SPACE LAW AND THE EU SPACE ACT
Italy has taken a significant step toward shaping the future of the European space economy.
In May 2025, Italy adopted the Space Economy Law (Law No. 89/2025) to regulate and incentivize the national space sector. The Italian law, with its implementing decrees currently being defined, will be a key element in shaping the future EU regulatory framework, with the dual objective of balancing national sovereignty and establishing a unified European space market.
This session will explore how these legislative initiatives can accelerate the growth and competitiveness of the space economy.
Moderator: Elda Turco Bulgherini, Vice President ASI
Alberto Carboni, Study Centre – Aerospace Adviser, Confindustria
Zuzana Mazanova, Head of Unit – Space Single Market, Directorate-General for Defence industry and Space, European Commission
Mauro Piermaria, Deputy Chief, Office for Space and Aerospace Policies, Presidency of the Italian Council of Ministers
Luigi Riggio, Head of Space and Aerospace Policy Units, Office of the Military Advisor, Presidency of the Italian Council of Ministers
9.50 AM
ITALIAN SPACE LAW: CONTRACTUAL AND EXTRA-CONTRACTUAL ASPECTS
The Italian Space Economy Law (Law No. 89/2025) establishes a comprehensive regulatory framework for the liability of those involved in space activities. It defines both contractual and extra-contractual responsibilities for operators and requires them to take out mandatory insurance coverage to address potential damage.
The extra-contractual provisions define liability for damage to third parties on Earth, to aircraft, or to people on board, and outline authorization procedures and risk management measures.
This panel will examine the legal and operational implications of these frameworks, focusing on liability regimes, insurance requirements, and risk management strategies for industry and institutions.
Moderator: Elda Turco Bulgherini, Vice President ASI
Michele Maria Comenale Pinto, Full Professor of Navigation Law, University of Sassari
Elisabetta Rosafio, Full Professor of Navigation Law and Aerospace Law, Department of Law, Rome University Tor Vergata
Flavia Melillo, Marine & Aviation Manager, ANIA
Alberto Carboni, Study Centre, Aerospace Adviser, Confindustria
10.40 AM
SPACE THEMATIC ACCOUNT TO ASSESS SPACE ECONOMY
Accurate measurement of the Space Economy requires specialized economic and statistical tools. These enable the assessment of direct, indirect, and induced economic impacts, offering a comprehensive view of the role of a specific sector in modern society and its growing importance.
The Italian National Institute of Statistics and the Italian Space Agency have signed a cooperation agreement aimed at quantifying and defining the boundaries of the Italian Space Economy, with the ultimate goal of creating a dedicated Thematic Account for the national Space Economy. This will be based on international guidelines and benchmarks, including work developed by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) and the collaboration between the European Space Agency (ESA) and Eurostat.
This panel will examine the potential of Space Thematic Accounts to support the recognition of the Space Economy as a driver of the national economic system.
Moderator: Chiara Albicocco, Journalist
Federico Sallusti, Senior Researcher, ISTAT
Stephanie Willekens, Economist, ESA
Matteo Coletta, Head of Sector – Study Centre and New Space Economy, ASI
Ciro Rapacciuolo, Senior Economist, Confindustria
11.30 PM
ACCESS TO SPACE NEW TRENDS AND EVOLUTION
Access to space is at the heart of the new global space race. Significant developments include the deployment of mega-constellations to provide global connectivity, orbital habitats, and increasingly ambitious robotic and crewed missions to the Moon and Mars.
As access to space becomes more widespread, the ecosystem is becoming more democratic and complex, raising critical governance challenges around issues such as space debris management and data security.
This session will examine emerging technologies, new market players, and innovative business models that are transforming launch services and orbital infrastructure. Commercialization is a key driver of this change, with reusable launch systems reducing costs and private companies such as SpaceX leading progress.
Moderator:
Augusto Cramarossa, Head of Strategic Coordination Office, ASI
Enrico Cavallini, Head of Space Transportation, Space Infrastructures and In Orbit Systems Dept., ASI
Toni Tolker-Nielsen, Director of Space Transportation, ESA
Maria Fernandez – Molinero, Head of Space Policy Unit, European Commission
Marco Biagioni, Chief Program Officer, AVIO
12.20 PM
SPACE HUMAN CAPITAL: FORGING THE NEW PROFESSIONALS
The rapid growth of the space industry is generating a high demand for highly qualified professionals with new skill sets.
The concept of “Space Human Capital” highlights the importance of a specialized and diverse talent pool to drive innovation and support sector growth.
The space sector is evolving to include not only astronauts and engineers, but also experts in fields such as data science, cybersecurity, policy, and management.
This panel will explore the challenges and opportunities involved in training a competitive, future-ready workforce.
Moderator:
Alessandro Preti, Human Resources Director, ASI
Marco Ferrazzani, Director of Resources and Services, ESA
Francesca Galli, Head of Unit within the Cabinet Office of the Italian Ministry of University and Research
Marco La Commare, Head of Human Resources, Instrumental Resources and General Administration Service ACN, National Cybersecurity Agency
Lucia Scattarelli, President, Fondazione ITS “A. Cuccovillo”
Sara Morisani, Director, AIRI, Italian Association for Industrial Research
Giancarlo Granero, Head of Unit DG Defence Industry and Space, Space Economy Unit, European Commission
AFTERNOON SESSION
2.30 PM
SPACE & BLUE ECONOMY: SYNERGIES AND NEW OPPORTUNITIES
There are strong strategic and technological synergies between the space and maritime domains. The convergence of the Space and Blue economies is creating new opportunities for growth and environmental stewardship.
Satellite technology, Earth observation data and satellite-based communications are pivotal in monitoring and managing marine and coastal resources, which are key drivers of the Blue Economy.
Cross-sector collaboration is essential to supporting resilience, innovation, and sustainable ocean governance.
This discussion will examine how integrating the two strategic sectors can foster sustainable development, security, and innovation.
Moderator: Roberta Busatto, Journalist
Maria Libera Battagliere, Space and Blue Task Force, ASI Drectorate – General Strategic Coordinator Office, ASI Presidency
Fabio Casamassima, Research, Development & Doctrine Office Head, Italian Navy General Staff, Submarines & Underwater Dimension Division
Roberto Danovaro, Full Professor, Polytechnic University of Marche
Francesco Ruggiero, Head of the External Relations Office of the Italian National Hub for Underwater, therefore relations with companies, industries, ministries, NATO-EU bodies
Chiara Vagaggini, Full Professor of Navigation Law, Rome University of Tor Vergata
3.20 PM
NEW SPACE TECHNOLOGIES IN THE AI–QUANTUM ERA
Artificial intelligence and quantum technologies are transforming the space sector.
The convergence of AI and quantum technologies is ushering in a new era of space exploration, characterised by greater security, autonomy, and analytical capabilities.
Integrating AI with quantum computing, communication, and sensing is enabling significant advances in areas such as deep space navigation, mission optimisation, and sustainable orbital management.
This panel will explore their applications, impacts, and strategic potential for future space activities.
Moderator:
Mariapia Ebreo, Journalist
Davide Calonico,Scientific Director, INRIM
Giuseppe D’Amore, Head of Technology Development Projects Sector, ASI
Francesco Saverio Cataliotti, CNR-INO
Fabio Vitobello, Task Force Leader for Space and Propulsion Technologies, European Commission
ESA Representative
4.10 PM
THE INCREASING ROLE OF SECURITY IN THE SPACE DOMAIN
Space is increasingly important for national and global security.
As the world becomes more reliant on space-based assets for communication, navigation, and defence, the space domain is becoming increasingly congested and contested.
This shift highlights the need for robust security measures, including physical protection against debris and hostile actions, as well as cybersecurity to safeguard space systems from digital threats.
This session will examine the strategies, tools, and cooperation mechanisms required to protect space infrastructure and data.
Moderator:
Alessandro Marrone, Head of the Defence, Security and Space Programme, IAI Istituto Affari Internazionali
Roberto Del Vecchio, Italian Defence Staff, Chief Space Policy Office
Zuzana Mazanova, Head of Unit – Space Single Market – European Commission, Directorate-General for Defence industry and Space
Denis Rocchetti, COVI
Carmelo Romeo, Head of the 2nd Division – Radar Surveillance, Radio Systems for Flight Assistance, Meteorology, and Testing Ranges at TELEDIFE, National Armaments Directorate, Italian Ministry of Defence
Walter Villadei, Astronaut, Italian Air Force
5.00 PM
INDUSTRIAL ASSOCIATIONS ROLE FOR THE GROWTH OF THE SPACE ECONOMY
Industrial associations play a pivotal role in fostering collaboration, setting standards, and supporting the expansion of the space economy.
By advocating for effective policies and regulations, promoting their members globally, and driving innovation and technology transfer, these associations act as a vital bridge between government, industry, and academia.
They support a wide range of activities, including scientific research, national security, and commercial applications such as satellite internet and Earth observation.
This panel will examine their strategic impact and explore opportunities for stronger industry coordination, including with institutions.
Moderator: Augusto Cramarossa, Head of Strategic Coordination Office, ASI
Stefano Beco, Aerospace Sector Coordinator, AIAD Italian Enterprises Federation for Aerospace, Defence and Security
Federica Fistarollo, President, AIPAS , Association of Italian Space Enterprises
Leonardo Gagliardi, President ASAS, Association for Space-based Applications and Services
Giorgio Klinger, President Mechatronics Unit Unindustria, Director-General Sicam
5.50 PM
PPP OPPORTUNITIES IN THE SPACE ECONOMY LANDSCAPE
A key driver of the new space economy is the emergence of Public–Private Partnership (PPP) opportunities.
These instruments are gaining traction in areas such as telecommunications, climate and environmental monitoring, and navigation systems, where government agencies increasingly act as customers, co-financiers, and development partners.
Such partnerships play a crucial role in boosting private investment, fostering innovation, and reducing the cost of public programs.
This discussion will explore financial models, best practices, and innovative approaches to accelerate the development and commercialization of products and services.
Michela Sabetta, ASI
Geraldine Naja, Director of Commercialisation, Industry and Competitiveness – ESA
Matija Rencelj, Research Manager ESPI, European Space Policy Institute
Mauro Piermaria, Deputy Chief, Office for Space and Aerospace Policies, Presidency of the Italian Council of Ministers
Giancarlo Granero, Head of Unit DG Defence Industry and Space, Space Economy Unit, European Commission
DAY THREE
Friday 12th December 2025
MORNING SESSION
9.30 AM
THE EMERGING ROLE OF THE PRIVATE SECTOR IN THE SPACE ECONOMY
The new space economy ecosystem is no longer dominated solely by major international players.
Today, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are taking on a strategic role thanks to their ability to innovate rapidly and develop specialized solutions.
Access to more affordable technologies—such as nanosatellites and data analytics services—has lowered entry barriers, fostering the emergence of competitive startups and SMEs.
These entities contribute to market diversification, accelerating research and experimentation in areas such as telecommunications, Earth observation, and downstream services, among others.
Collaboration between large corporations and SMEs is therefore becoming a key driver of sustainable and inclusive growth in the new space economy.
Moderator: Chiara Albicocco, Journalist
Alessandro Balossino, R&D Unit Head, Argotec
Marco Molina, Managing Director, Sitael
Angelo Vallerani, Chief of Institutional Relations, OHB Italia
Marco Brancati, SVP Technology Innovation & System Architecture, Space Division Leonardo
Matteo Bartolini, VP Sales Engineering, D-ORBIT
10.20 AM
LIVING AND SURVIVING IN SPACE: HEALTH, SUSTAINABILITY AND BIOSYSTEMS BEYOND EARTH IN THE ERA OF THE NEW SPACE ECONOMY
How can we ensure health, well-being, and environmental sustainability for astronauts on long-duration missions?
This panel explores the challenges and innovative solutions in the field of space medicine, from orbital greenhouses for fresh food production, to regenerative life support systems, and advanced medical technologies to monitor and treat health in space.
A dialogue among experts to envision resilient and self-sufficient habitats capable of supporting human life beyond our Planet Earth.
Moderator:
Mariano Bizzarri, Professor, Rome University La Sapienza
Micol Bellucci, Project Manager , ASI
Stefania De Pascale, Professor of Horticolture, Federico II University
Ivair Gontijo, Systems Engineer, NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory
Monica Monici, Professor, Florence University
Ersilia Vaudo, Special Advisor on Future Talents, ESA
11.10 AM
EARTH OBSERVATION: EMERGING TRENDS AND EVOLUTIONS
Earth Observation is entering a new era of intelligence and accessibility.
Emerging trends include the integration of AI and machine learning to enable faster and more accurate analysis of satellite data, the use of smaller satellite constellations to improve coverage and revisit times, and the shift from selling raw data to delivering actionable information.
Key applications include climate monitoring, disaster response, and supply chain tracking.
Meanwhile, increased access to open data and public-private partnerships are driving rapid innovation and market expansion.
This panel will explore the new trends of one of the most strategically relevant technology verticals in the Space Economy, highlighting its strategic importance and the evolutionary factors reshaping its characteristics.
Moderator:
Mariapia Ebreo, Journalist
Giuseppe Borghi, Head of Phi-Lab, ESA
Fabrizia Buongiorno, Director of Environment Department, INGV
Luca Fasano, Seconded National Expert from ASI, Earth Observation Unit, DG DEFIS, European Commission, European Commission
Francesco Longo, Head of Observation Unit, ASI
Valerio Mannelli, Geo-Tecnologies & Analytics Specialist, AMARoma
12.00 PM
IRIDE CONSTELLATION: A NEW OPPORTUNITY IN THE EARTH OBSERVATION MARKET
The IRIDE constellation is a significant opportunity in the European Earth Observation sector: an unprecedented end-to-end satellite solution integrating a ground segment, a flight segment, a marketplace, and a services segment.
The IRIDE project, funded by the Italian government through PNRR and implemented by the European Space Agency (ESA), will be transferred to ASI in 2026. It involves over 70 Italian companies and is expected to reach full operational capacity by next year, fueling major opportunities for innovation and growth in one of the key sectors of the Space Economy.
This panel will examine the impact of the IRIDE project on the market, industrial competitiveness, and its potential to strengthen collaboration between public and private stakeholders.
Moderator:
Mariapia Ebreo, Journalist
Marco Casucci, Local Services Development Coordinator, ESA
Elena Francioni, Vice President, Civil Commercial and Business Development – Italian Market, E-Geos
Marco Lisi, Inviato Speciale del Ministro degli Affari Esteri e della Cooperazione Internazionale per lo Spazio
Silvia Natalucci, Head of EO Mission Management Section, ASI
Simona Zoffoli, Head of EO Downstream Sector – ASI
Massimo Zotti, Head of the Strategic Business Unit “Government & Security”, Planetek Italia
12.50 PM
#T-TeC LAUNCH CEREMONY
Promoting innovation in space, transforming brilliant ideas into successful start-ups, and inspiring the next generation of STEM talents — #T-TeC is the open innovation competition promoted by Leonardo and Telespazio.
Now in its seventh edition, #T-TeC invites students, PhD candidates, and young researchers from universities worldwide to present groundbreaking solutions across the space sector — from Geoinformation to in-orbit services, from space exploration to the challenge of protecting our planet from space debris.
1.20 PM
PITCH COMPETITION AWARD CEREMONY – NSE 2025 Startup Competition
This contest is dedicated to innovative startups, organized with the technical support of ASI – the Italian Space Agency, within the framework of NSE 2025. The event brings together startups, industry experts, and international speakers in a dynamic and high-level setting.
*Notice: Update 6 December 2025, the above program may be subject to change.
