Satellite Data Management and Privacy Law

With the development of an increasingly data driven global economy, the relevance of the space sector is increasing, with reference not only to the traditional telecommunications satellites but also to Earth Observation satellites, equipped with increasingly sophisticated electro optical, radar and spectrographic payloads capable of collecting increasingly precise and well-defined data. This space race sees the participation above all of private entities that flank and sometimes replace the normal institutional players. However, private companies carry out extensive data collection, with the sole aim of making it profitable, while also increasing the number of satellites in orbit and also posing risks to the ecosystem. In this light, the aim of the paper is to specifically analyze the issue of personal data processing, also with regard to the latest advances in the field of sensors and access to space, adopting the tools of Empirical Legal Studies and cost-benefit assessment in order to identify the most appropriate intervention tool. The objective of the research study is to support a proposal for integrating space-related legislation with existing privacy legislation, in order to ensure effective protection of individuals.