Space sector

1985

Creation of SES (Société Européenne des Satellites), today one of the world’s leading global satellite operators.

1988

First launch: Astra1A, broadcasting satellite.

2005

Luxembourg becomes the 17th Member State of ESA, the European Space Agency

2016

Spaceresources.lu initiative

The Luxembourg space sector accounts for more than 70 active companies, including specialised research institutions. The sector already employs over 800 highly skilled workers and highly qualified specialists in various fields of the space industry.

Luxembourg’s openness to new initiatives and the will to generate fresh ideas have contributed to making the space sector a new priority. The Grand Duchy has created a space-friendly environment based on a stable legal and regulatory system optimal for new and mature space operators.

In particular, the Luxembourg law on the exploration and use of space resources of 20 July 2017 placed the country among the most innovative space-oriented nations in the world. This law, alongside the law of 27 July 1991 on electronic media and the new law of 15 December 2020 on space activities, provide a legal framework for “new space” activities. Their aim is the further development of the constantly growing Luxembourg space industry.

… legal advice with respect to:

• the choice and incorporation of a Luxembourg company under the most suitable form for your business
• the day-to-day activity of your company and any arising legal issues
• corporate governance ensuring compliance with applicable laws
• negotiation of your contracts and cooperation agreements with:
  • research and development institutions (FNR, LIST, etc.) or space agencies (ESA, LSA)
  • institutional business partners.
  • sub-contractors.
  • start-up incubators.
  • business angels and investors (Luxembourg Future Fund)
  • clients
• existing legal standard market practice in Luxembourg

… guidance through the process of application for:

• a business licence (autorisation d’établissement) for your commercial activity
• a concession as a satellite operator in accordance with the provisions of the Luxembourg law on electronic media of 1991
• an authorisation to explore and use the space resources in accordance with the provisions of the Luxembourg law on exploration and use of space resources of 2017

• an authorisation to exercise a space activity within the meaning of the Luxembourg law on space activities of 2020

… legal counselling on:

• how to register and protect your IP/IT rights developed in and from Luxembourg
• the process of hiring your new employees (including the relevant work permit matters and other conditions applying to the recruitment procedure)
• available incentive programs for the valuable members of your team, stock option plans and other incentive schemes
• tax, VAT and transfer pricing implications for your business
• compliance with the applicable laws of the European Union (including with respect to the competition and State aid elements)

… assistance with:

• setting up and structuring the financing of your business activity
• setting up of private funds and other capital raising schemes
• maintaining a good relationship with potential business partners, investors and institutions