New Space España closes its fourth edition with collaboration and autonomy as key themes for the future of the space sector

In September, the fourth edition of New Space España brought together more than 280 professionals, 130 companies and 45 speakers from the Spanish space industry in Vigo. Over two days, the event organised by Alén Space explored the challenges and opportunities that will shape the sector’s evolution.

Strategic sovereignty, technological autonomy, the connection between research and industry, public-private collaboration, the development of industrial capabilities in a dual-use environment, and security and defence challenges were among the main themes of a programme that brought together representatives from companies, public administrations, agencies, technology centres and universities.

GMV took an active role in several sessions throughout the event. Miguel Ángel Molina, Deputy General Manager of Space Systems at GMV, delivered the conference ‘Operating in space: Key challenges that will shape leadership in the coming years’, focused on the growing complexity of operating and protecting space assets. José Antonio Viceira Martín, Director of Space Missions Domain at GMV, took part in the round table ‘Sovereignty and autonomy: the industry’s perspective’, while Amaya Atencia, Director of Strategy and Business Development for Earth Observation at GMV, moderated the panel ‘Sovereignty and autonomy: the challenges facing Spain and Europe’.

Alén Space was also represented by its CEO, Guillermo Lamelas, who welcomed participants with an address focused on the current challenges facing the space industry and the need to turn Europe’s existing investment and capabilities into greater competitiveness. Isolina Pérez Donnelly, Commercial Director at Alén Space, moderated the round table ‘The value of data: downstream solutions’, while Antonio Vázquez, Head of Business Development, took part in the closing session.

The fourth edition further consolidated New Space España as a meeting and discussion forum for key players across the Spanish and European space ecosystem.