The Centre for Space Futures (CSF), in partnership with Novaspace and SpaceTech Gulf, has signed a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) to develop a Global Space Capability Mapping Dashboard. The initiative, announced in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in June 2026, is designed to create a comprehensive, interactive platform that maps space capabilities across the globe, including infrastructure, technologies, and human capital.
The dashboard will aggregate data from public and private sources to offer a real-time, dynamic view of the global space sector. This tool is intended to support strategic decision-making for governments, space agencies, private companies, and research institutions by identifying gaps, opportunities, and areas of collaboration. The partners aim to enhance transparency and efficiency in the rapidly expanding space industry, which has seen increased investment and activity from both established and emerging spacefaring nations.
CSF, a think tank focused on the long-term development of space activities, brings expertise in policy analysis and foresight. Novaspace, a leading consulting firm in the space sector, contributes deep industry knowledge and market intelligence. SpaceTech Gulf, a regional hub for space innovation based in the United Arab Emirates, provides a strategic Middle Eastern perspective and access to a growing network of space stakeholders in the region. The collaboration leverages the strengths of each organization to ensure the dashboard is both comprehensive and actionable.
The dashboard will cover a wide range of capabilities, including satellite manufacturing, launch services, ground station networks, space science research, and workforce development. It will also track policy frameworks, regulatory environments, and international partnerships. By offering a standardized, searchable database, the platform aims to reduce duplication of efforts and foster more effective collaboration across borders. The partners expect the dashboard to be particularly valuable for developing nations seeking to build or expand their space programs, as it will highlight available resources and potential partners.
The MoC outlines a phased development process, beginning with data collection and integration, followed by the creation of a prototype, and culminating in a publicly accessible platform. The timeline for completion has not been disclosed, but the partners emphasize that the dashboard will be continuously updated to reflect the evolving space landscape. The initiative aligns with broader trends in the space industry, where data-driven tools are increasingly used to manage complex global systems, such as satellite constellations and space traffic management.
The announcement comes at a time when the global space economy is projected to grow significantly, with estimates suggesting it could reach $1 trillion by 2040. The dashboard is expected to help stakeholders navigate this growth by providing clear, actionable insights. It also reflects a growing recognition of the need for international coordination in space activities, particularly as issues like orbital debris, spectrum allocation, and lunar exploration require collaborative solutions.
Representatives from all three organizations expressed optimism about the partnership. A CSF spokesperson noted that the dashboard will serve as a «critical tool for fostering a more inclusive and efficient space ecosystem.» A Novaspace executive highlighted the importance of data transparency in driving innovation, while a SpaceTech Gulf leader emphasized the role of the Middle East as a bridge between established and emerging space powers. The partners plan to engage with a wide range of stakeholders during the development process, including space agencies, industry associations, and academic institutions, to ensure the dashboard meets the needs of the global space community.
