Space Cities Network Cleared for Liftoff into a New Era of Aerospace Collaboration

Magazine:
HQ Global
28th Nov, 2024
Category:
Interview
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The launch of the Space Cities Network at the ICCA Congress in Abu Dhabi. Gérald Howard (second from left) and Claire Hector-Taylor (center) alongside representatives from the founding cities
In a bold move to advance international cooperation in the aerospace industry, the Space Cities Network (SCN) was officially launched at the ICCA Congress in Abu Dhabi in October 2024. This new initiative brings together the combined strengths of Lausanne (Switzerland), Christchurch (New Zealand), Houston (USA), and Seoul (South Korea), each of which plays a key role in driving innovation and sustainability in the sector. By fostering a collaborative environment between cities, research institutions and industry leaders, the SCN aims to create a platform for cross-border cooperation that goes beyond space technology to sustainable urban development.
In this introductory interview, the first of a series to explore the vision behind this newly formed network, we sit down with two key representatives from the founding cities. Gérald Howard, Senior Business Development Manager at Lausanne Montreux Congress, and Claire Hector-Taylor, Business Development Manager – International at ChristchurchNZ, share their perspectives on how their cities are using their unique strengths to advance the SCN's mission of global aerospace cooperation.
 
What are the key objectives of the Space Cities Network in fostering global collaboration within the fields of aeronautics and space?
 
Gérald Howard: It is all about legacy and the future. The Space Cities Network aims to bridge various institutions, academies, and industries from different cultures and countries. We want to be the link that connects the dots, fostering relations in a community that offers a plurality of visions on what space should be.
 
Claire Hector-Taylor: Space innovation, technology, and exploration have become truly collective endeavours. Connectivity plays a vital role in the space community, and this influence can extend across domains and specialities. Some key objectives of the Network in fostering global collaboration include:
  • A shared vision
  • Knowledge exchange
  • International collaboration
  • Academic and industry partnerships
  • Resource development and management
Additionally, the network includes a core group of business events professionals. It is well understood that business events can be catalysts for achieving a broad range of outcomes, such as building a global profile, enhancing the knowledge economy, establishing new international connections, driving trade and export opportunities, showcasing local experts and companies, securing funding for research projects, and creating lasting legacy opportunities.
 
How does the Space Cities Network plan to support and drive international conferences and events in the space sector to promote knowledge exchange and technological advancements?
 
Gérald: As the saying goes, ‘Qui va piano, va sano e lontano’ (slow and steady wins the race). We believe in prioritising quality over quantity.
The ideal format we all agreed upon is as follows: The various committees within the Network will brainstorm on what is needed to strengthen exchanges and identify which domains require development and guidance within the scientific community. For instance, there have already been discussions on space sustainability (editor’s note: stay tuned for an upcoming interview on Space Sustainability). There is a pressing need in that domain; just check the website LeoLabs to understand the current situation of our space.
 
Once the streams are defined, we will support event development with the help of our members across universities, industries, and agencies. The themes and size of events will be tailored to specific goals, with a focus on maintaining a manageable scale to ensure the realisation of concrete projects in the long term.
 
Claire: The Network is mapping international space-related conferences to align with the strengths and focus areas of the member cities. We aim to provide a seamless offering to conferences that align with multiple cities' capabilities and capacities, with multi-year collaboration opportunities.
 
The Network is also keen to develop smaller meetings and events with experts focused on specific domains of space – for the purpose of knowledge exchange, global problem-solving, and advancing research and technology.
 
Do you expect more cities to join the four founding members of the Space Cities Network soon following the signing of the Artemis Accords by 43 countries in June 2024, representing a global effort to explore the Moon?
 
Gérald: Yes, projects like Artemis can serve as a mirror for what our network could become in the near future. However, for now, we are cautious not to exceed a certain number of cities. This approach aids in decision-making and ensures we serve the overall market and space community equitably. The Artemis project is managed by major leaders, bringing together multiple countries, each with its own speciality. Humans naturally prioritise projects, and we believe we will learn a great deal quickly. Let’s not forget that the space domain is sensitive, it takes time to realise such projects and satisfy all stakeholders.
 
Claire: While the Network has launched with a small group of key cities, we anticipate growth over time. Our short-term focus is on developing core strategies and tactical activities. Once we are in a solid position, other cities may be considered for inclusion. The Network isn't currently connected to the Artemis project, but there could be opportunities for future alignment or partnership with significant international projects where mutual value can be created.
 
As the Space Cities Network launches, this interview marks the beginning of an exciting content series on the intersection of space innovation and sustainable development. Over the coming weeks and months, HQ Magazine will publish new content in various formats, including interviews, in-depth reports and social media features, focusing on the key areas shaping the future of the space sector. Expect insights into space sustainability, responsible exploration, space debris management, and cross-sector partnerships that drive innovation.
 
This is just the beginning; whether you're an event organiser, industry professional or passionate about space, there's much more to come. So, keep an eye on this space (literally and figuratively) as we continue to explore the game-changing collaborations transforming the global aerospace landscape and the business events sector and share in-depth discussions with experts and best practices from the founding cities.
 
Voices from the Founding Members: How Cities are Harnessing Their Strengths to Support Global Cooperation in Aerospace
Steeve Pasche
Lausanne
"Membership of this network does fulfil several major objectives. It will have an impact in increasing national research centers exchange for sure. It will highlight the skills and know-how of our strong space community and academic institutions. And International networking with the use of events will sustain the development of these skills and allow our region to stand out as a benchmark in this promised field. 
Also, Space Cities Network, in welcoming its future events, will help to raise the profile of our magnificent region and encourage guests to discover it."
 
— Steeve Pasche, Co-Chair Lausanne Montreux Congress, Director of Lausanne Tourisme
 
Claire Hector-Taylor
Christchurch
"Christchurch has a burgeoning aerospace sector that is rapidly attracting international attention and has become one of the city's key economic clusters. By participating in the Space Cities Network, we aim to leverage our strengths, such as test-bed facilities with a responsive regulatory environment, favourable physical attributes like low air traffic and advantageous atmospheric conditions, and deep collaboration across education, private sector, and investors. The city is eager to grow this sector locally while leading in global aerospace collaboration, and we see the Network as a significant enabler of these objectives."
— Claire Hector-Taylor, Business Development Manager - International, ChristchurchNZ
 
Daniel Palomo
Houston
"Houston leverages its space exploration expertise to support the Space Cities Network’s mission of global aerospace cooperation. As a founding member, Houston fosters international partnerships, hosts key aerospace events, and drives innovation through its robust network of universities and research centres. The city promotes economic growth by attracting diverse space conferences and supports educational and career development in the space sector. Houston’s active involvement of its Scientific Advisory Committee members, including the Houston Spaceport, Space Center Houston, and the Greater Houston Partnership, underscores its commitment to leading global aerospace innovation and cooperation."
— Daniel Palomo, MBA, MSc, Director, International Group and Leisure Sales, Houston First Corporation
 
Man Gi Kim
Seoul
"Seoul is utilising its technological innovations and MICE capabilities to support the Space Cities Network's mission. With strong research institutions and a focus on AI and big data, the city aims to enhance international collaboration in aerospace through high-profile events and conferences, positioning itself as a global hub in the industry."
— Man Gi Kim, Executive Director, Seoul Tourism Organization
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