JEDDAH: Commercial opportunities along with military and humanitarian demands drive the need for sustainable space and satellite programs across the Middle East. "Regional unrest seen in some parts of the Middle East and North Africa over recent months demonstrate the importance of national security and the intelligence-gathering roles that satellite technology can support," said Nick Webb, director, Streamline Marketing Group, organizer of the three-day Global Space and Satellite Forum (GSSF) 2011 GSSF 2011 to be held at ADNEC in Abu Dhabi on May 9-11. Satellite communications also play an important role in disaster relief, particularly in re-establishing communications in areas where normal landlines and mobile telephone infrastructure are destroyed. "Among the numerous arguments for the creation of sustainable space programs is the growing congestion, competition and complexity of the space environment, compounded by economic uncertainty and a geostrategic environment in a state of constant flux. Sustainability strategies can help regional space policy makers navigate these challenges." said John B. Sheldon, professor of Space and Cyberspace Strategic Studies, School of Advanced Air and Space Studies, Alabama, who will be one among experts to speak at the upcoming conference. Sheldon's presentation "Sustainable Space Policy and Programs in an Era of Volatility" provides an overview of the geopolitical ramifications of Middle Eastern space programs and outlines how space capabilities can contribute to regional stability and prosperity.
