On Tuesday, July 2, the Prince’s Government Office of Space Affairs, in collaboration with the French National Center for Space Studies (CNES) and Prométhée Earth Intelligence, organised the second edition of the Ocean Space Forum (OSF) at the Oceanographic Museum of Monaco with the aim of highlighting the use of space technologies and satellite data in preserving and sustainably managing the ocean.
The forum, themed ‘Road to UNOC’, gathered scientific, political, and economic leaders to discuss key topics such as preserving marine ecosystems, developing the blue economy, combating climate change, and conserving marine resources. The event is a precursor to the third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC) set for June, 2025 in Nice.
Notable discussions included the use of satellite data to monitor coral reefs and mangroves, the role of space technologies in sustainable marine resource management, and the importance of collaboration to prevent illegal fishing activities. The forum emphasized the need for international cooperation to enhance ocean governance and protect marine biodiversity.
HSH the Sovereign Prince addressed the participants via a video message, highlighting the potential of space data to improve ocean health and sustainability. He stressed the importance of using advanced and precise space technologies to achieve environmental goals.
Government Advisor-Minister of External Relations and Cooperation Isabelle Berro-Amadeï and Interministerial Delegate for Attractiveness and Digital Transition Frédéric Genta supported the forum’s initiatives, emphasising the importance of synergy between space technologies and ocean-related challenges.
Jean-Marc Astorg, Director of Strategy at CNES, and leaders from Prométhée Earth Intelligence, Olivier Piepsz and Giao-Minh Nguyen, reiterated the necessity of public-private cooperation and the involvement of civil society in utilising satellite data for sustainable solutions.
The third edition of the OSF, scheduled for 2025 alongside the UNOC, aims to foster an alliance of space institutions dedicated to ocean protection.
Featured image courtesy of Communication Department – Manuel Vitali: 2nd OSF – 2nd Edition of the Ocean Space Forum