2026 Future of Space Policy Forum

Is Space an Accident Waiting to Happen?

The Collision of Satellites, Debris, and Geopolitics

October 15, 2026 | 6:00-8:45 PM | Denver Museum of Nature and Science

In 2026, the “Wild West” of space is getting crowded. With the U.S. transitioning space traffic management to civilian hands (TraCSS) and China rolling out their massive G60 and SatNet megaconstellations, the margin for error has shrunk. History tells us that large frontiers don’t stay spacious for long. The 2026 DCFR Space Policy Forum asks a pointed question: in a domain with no governing authority and no “space police,” who is responsible for defining and enforcing accountability — and who will foot the bill if no one steps up?

This is the third Annual Future of Space Policy Forum and Expo©— bringing together the U.S. foreign policy and space communities to tackle complex questions neither can answer alone.

Register Here!

Key Discussion Topics

If a country simply fails to clean up its debris and critical orbital corridors become impassable, is that negligence — or an act of aggression?
As private companies launch thousands of satellites beyond the reach of international law, how do we hold them accountable — and can national governments effectively regulate what their corporations do in orbit?
What governance models, international agreements, or emerging technologies give us the most reason for optimism that orbital space can be managed sustainably over the next decade?
What is the Kessler Syndrome, and is it something we should even worry about?