On 26 February 2020, the Government of Ukraine approved procedures to allow private companies to operate in the Ukrainian space technology market.

Specifically, Ukraine not only allowed private companies to carry out such activities, but also significantly simplified permitting procedures.

Any company that wishes to conduct any space technology activities in Ukraine must submit a declaration (the "Declaration") to the State Space Agency (the "SSA"). The Declaration has to contain detailed information about the company, its location, and the types of space technology activities proposed to be undertaken. The SSA then registers the Declaration within five days of its submission, and no further approval of that Declaration is required.

Once the Declaration process is completed, private companies may conduct certain space activities, subject to a separate permitting procedure. These can include:

  • tests of carrier-rockets and spacecraft;
  • launches of carrier-rockets and spacecraft;
  • control of spacecraft within the Earth's orbit or in space; and
  • return of spacecraft to Earth.

The permits to be issued by the SSA will be free of charge. The potential investor should complete the application form and provide the SSA with:

  • data on the object of the activity;
  • personnel to be engaged;
  • proof of insurance coverage for damage caused by its activities;
  • emergency risk assessment and contingency plans; and
  • an environmental impact assessment.

Depending on the type of activity, additional documents and information may also be required.

Within 90 days of the application being filed, the SSA will conduct an inspection of the location of the activity to ensure that it complies with the requirements for space flight operations, and then determine whether to issue the permit.

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.