On 23 April 2026, the United Nations University will host a screening of Astropolitics, a documentary film directed by Tony Silberfeld and produced by Bertelsmann Foundation Documentary Films. The screening will be followed by a panel discussion with representatives from public and private sector space organizations. The event will start at 18:00 in the 1F Annex Space at UNU Headquarters in Tokyo.
The film Astropolitics draws on interviews with experts and practitioners from across the space sector to explore how space activities are evolving and what this means for international relations. The film traces the historical roots of space exploration during Cold War rivalry and examines how developments in recent decades have reshaped the space domain. Today, an increasing number of states, alongside private actors, are expanding their presence in Earth orbit and beyond.
Through expert commentary and archival footage, the documentary highlights how space has become more accessible, yet also more contested. It considers the implications of these trends for global governance, security and long-term sustainability, raising the central question of whether outer space will remain a domain of cooperation or increasingly mirror geopolitical competition on Earth.
Following the screening, the film’s director, Tony Silberfeld, will moderate a panel discussion reflecting on these themes, with particular attention on governance and policy challenges related to space activities. The discussion will conclude with an audience Q&A session.
A light reception and networking session will be held after the panel, providing an opportunity for informal exchange among participants and speakers.
Please note that this event will be in English. Advance registration (by 22 April 2026) is required. Please click on the REGISTER button above to access the online registration page.
Please be prepared to present identification at check-in.
Programme
17:15 — Doors open
18:00 — Screening of Astropolitics
19:00 — Panel discussion
Moderator:
- Mr. Tony Silberfeld, Director of Transatlantic Relations, Bertelsmann Foundation
Panellists:
- Mr. Chris Blackerby, Chief Operating Officer, Astroscale
- Ms. Masami Onoda, Director of the International Relations and Research Department, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency
19:45 — Reception and networking session