The Space Mindset: Navigating Space Policy, Diplomacy & Global Leadership | Science Summit 2026

As more nations and companies pursue opportunities in space, how do we build the cooperation, capabilities, and rules needed to benefit people on Earth and protect the space environment? Recorded on September 23, 2026, as part of the Science Summit at the United Nations General Assembly, this global conversation explores the decisions that will shape a peaceful, sustainable, and inclusive space future. Shelli Brunswick convenes leaders in diplomacy, space policy, law, research, and innovation to connect ambitious goals with practical action. Speakers and key insights H.E. Rosalía Arteaga Serrano — Former President of Ecuador. Leadership must consider future generations, with education and environmental responsibility central to today's choices. Ambassador Anil Trigunayat — Former Ambassador of India to Jordan, Libya, and Malta. Diplomacy and respect for mutual interests are essential as geopolitical competition in space grows. H.E. Dr. Mohamed Al-Aseeri — CEO, Bahrain Space Agency. Bahrain’s experience shows how investment in people, institutions, and partnerships can turn national space ambitions into lasting capability. Prof. Dr. Kai-Uwe Schrogl — Special Adviser for Political Affairs, European Space Agency. Regional space organizations can bring countries together, pool resources, and strengthen international space diplomacy. Dr. Diane Howard — Former Director of Commercial Space Policy, U.S. National Space Council; Principal, sur l’espace PLLC. Thoughtful governance can enable commercial innovation while advancing safety and sustainability. Dr. Masami Onoda — Director, International Relations and Research Department, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA). In a prerecorded presentation, she explores how research partnerships and capacity building prepare the next generation for international collaboration. Watch her complete presentation separately: Dr. Masami Onoda, JAXA | The Space Mindset... Mr. Michal Brichta — Director of the Innovation Department, Ministry of Economy of the Slovak Republic; Vice President, International Astronautical Federation. Emerging space nations can build strong ecosystems by connecting policy, talent, investment, entrepreneurship, and international partners. Ms. Aarti Holla-Maini — Director, United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs. Inclusive participation, human capital, and multilateral cooperation are vital to making the benefits of space available to all. The session concludes with a question for every leader: What action can we take now to turn international cooperation into measurable progress? Convened and moderated by Shelli Brunswick, creator of The Space Mindset.