On 23 June 2025, the United Nations University and SpaceData Inc. signed a new memorandum of understanding (MoU) focused on developing activities and research projects in areas of mutual interest including space development, digital technology, AI applications and sustainable development. The United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) is an implementing partner of the agreement.
The new MoU aligns the strengths of UNU and SpaceData Inc., with support from UNOOSA, to co-develop and co-host a varied mix of joint learning, capacity-building and knowledge-exchange initiatives including academic programmes, seminars, workshops and conferences focused on space technology and digital innovation.
Speaking at the signing, UNU Rector Tshilidzi Marwala remarked: "This year, as we celebrate the UN’s 80th anniversary and UNU’s 50th anniversary, it is fitting that we witness stronger coordination between the UN and visionary private sector actors like SpaceData. Today, we are not just signing a piece of paper; it is the beginning of a shared journey. Here at UNU, we look forward to collaborating with SpaceData on research, capacity-building and innovation that reaches across borders and beyond boundaries.”
Welcoming the new agreement, Katsuaki Sato, CEO and Founder of SpaceData Inc. commented: "By bringing together advanced technologies such as space systems, AI and digital twins with the global academic platform of the United Nations University, we have established a new framework for exploring humanity’s most pressing challenges from fresh and multidisciplinary perspectives.
We believe that complex global issues — such as climate change and disaster resilience — can be reconsidered and reimagined by leveraging the vantage point of space and the power of emerging technologies. Through this collaboration, we hope to contribute not only to the development of space as an inclusive and sustainable infrastructure, but also to the cultivation of global talent who will shape the future of this field."
