Work: National Trainee European Space Agency Project Administrator at Eurisy
Education: Completed Master of Laws (LLM) at KU Leuven, specialising on International, European and Criminal law. During my education I produced a variety of academic papers. For each assignment, I pursued my personal domains of interest and proposed self-chosen subjects. This resulted in several original works. Completed the Master of Space Studies programme at KU Leuven & Ghent University, participated in the Astropreneurs Accelerator.
This article is a wrap-up of my master's thesis research on the transfer of space technology. Ess... more This article is a wrap-up of my master's thesis research on the transfer of space technology. Essentially, outer space is a challenging environment (weightlessness, vacuum, temperature extremes) demanding for systems that are failure-proof, reliable, and durable. Because the resulting technologies are in a class of their own they can offer valuable attributes to terrestrial industries as well. Therefore, technology transfer is especially effective in the space field. The transfer of space technology towards terrestrial applications provides important returns as it stimulates innovation and spurs economic growth. Innovation is thus not always the invention of a brand-new or revolutionary technology. In fact, the most efficient innovations stem from using existing technologies for purposes unrelated to their original use in order to create something new (technology as an enabler) or to improve something that already exists (technology as a differentiator). This process, referred to as technology transfer also brings valorisation as ideas and concepts are moved from the laboratory to the marketplace. The intention is to get the maximum value out of technology development in order to boost the economical and industrial competitiveness. Contrary to what some consider a waste of money, investments in space thus offer a lot of utility with a high potential of spillovers. The process of TT with regard to space consists of three segments. The first includes upstream transfers, spinning in ground based technology to support space programmes (e.g. launchers, satellites, exploration). The second segment is not a direct form of TT but is about using space-enabled data (e.g. Earth observation, telecommunication, Global Navigation Satellite Systems). The third segment contains downstream transfers. This is the process of turning space technology (hardware or software, products, processes) into an application down on Earth. It is this downstream segment that will be discussed further throughout this article.
This report follows a conference on the Belgian contributions to the ExoMars mission. It gives a ... more This report follows a conference on the Belgian contributions to the ExoMars mission. It gives a brief overview on new finding with regard to Martian methane detections. Methane is an organic compound that may contain the key to the question if Mars ever harboured Life. Reports of methane in the Martian atmosphere form an intense topic of debate because detections have been very sporadic in time and location, and often fell at the limit of the instruments' detection limits. In contrast to such findings, methane was repeatedly reported by several missions in the past from the Martian surface. Most importantly, local samplings of Mars's atmosphere in the Gale crater, performed by Curiosity, showed positive detections. Studies based on more recent results between April to August 2018 from the Belgian NOMAD instrument on board ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter (TGO) and its accompanying instrument, the Russian spectrometer ACS, contributed to this debate by showing a surprising lack of methane. The ACS and NOMAD instruments did not detect any methane over a range of latitudes in both hemispheres, obtaining an upper limit for methane of about 0.05 ppbv. Based on the previous detected methane spikes, these new results imply that the gas must be destroyed on Mars in a very peculiar process, not yet understood.
Arkyd-6 is a mission of Planetary Resources, a company with the long term goal of asteroidmining.... more Arkyd-6 is a mission of Planetary Resources, a company with the long term goal of asteroidmining. In this paper, the focus is on orbital mechanics and mission design of Arkyd-6: from the overall objective, towards orbital parameters, launcher characteristics and a functional description of the spacecraft systems.
Building upon the provisions of the Outer Space Treaty (OST), the Moon Agreement (MA) was intende... more Building upon the provisions of the Outer Space Treaty (OST), the Moon Agreement (MA) was intended to initiate discussions on a detailed international regime for the exploitation of the natural resources of the Moon and other celestial bodies. However, only 18 states are party to the MA, none of which is a major spacefaring nation. The reason behind this broad rejection, is a misperception of the MA. Nevertheless, its principles build upon the provisions of the OST. Moreover, other existing exploitation regimes work on the same basis. It is thus hard to imagine a substantial differing alternative, a conclusion which was also confirmed by the outcome of the Hague Working Group, which building blocks stay relatively close to the MA’s guiding principles.
States have been looking for other options. The United States initiated the national route and Luxembourg followed this track with an even more ambitious law. It seems that this national approach gained traction, as more and more states show interest in national legislation for the utilisation of natural resources in space. Even China, traditionally maintaining a wait and see approach, has finally taken a stance by signing a memorandum of understanding with Luxembourg. Additionally, China’s recent achievements on the Moon demonstrate its significance as a spacefaring nation, an emerging space giant which is only in its infancy.
With different nations wielding their own national legislation, attempting to enable their private industries to commence in space resource utilisation activities, a highly competitive contest could ignite. Following this scenario, the Moon, once shining in the unique and peaceful international space environment, turns red. Such a symbolic image would not only be representative for China’s emergence in space, but could also become illustrative for what would be a worst-case scenario: a commercial bloodbath between private companies relying on domestic legislation, at the expense of an international regime.
What is now the gravity of such a prospected red Moon? Taking into account the present course of events, it seems impossible to alter the negative perception of the MA. With China supporting the Luxembourg initiative, it looks like yet another major spacefaring nation, potentially even the major spacefaring nation, has forsaken the MA. However, looks can be deceiving.
In the first part of this paper, the rejection of the MA will be discussed. Next, the author explores whether it is possible at all, without violating the OST, to deviate from the only set of binding principles in the MA, stated in Article 11 paragraph 7, that must be achieved for the establishment of an international regime. Finally, the opportunities and threats of a red Moon will be analysed.
This paper was presented before ESA astronaut Frank De Winne, for the course of Questions in Spac... more This paper was presented before ESA astronaut Frank De Winne, for the course of Questions in Space Studies. In the paper, a European position is suggested in relation with China. The historical background, policy, and international relations of China as a spacefaring nation are thereby considered.
Based on an overview of the past, present, and potential future of a Sino-European partnership, Europe’s potential role, both of ESA and the EU in a broader international context is analysed.
China is continuously developing its space capabilities. The descent on the far side of the Moon was not only a historic achievement in space exploration, but also a strong signal and concrete expression of its rising capabilities to the rest of the world. Nevertheless, China desires to engage extensively in international cooperation. Although the nation still faces trust issues, one can speak of a window of opportunity to boost global cooperation with regard to human space exploration.
This paper was written for the course of Space Sciences and Exploration, during the Master of Spa... more This paper was written for the course of Space Sciences and Exploration, during the Master of Space Studies. The paper provides an overview of the threats and opportunities with regard to near-Earth asteroids. From asteroid impacts and planetary defence techniques, to exploration missions and commercial opportunities of asteroid mining.
This paper was written during the Master of Space Studies in the context of, the introductory cou... more This paper was written during the Master of Space Studies in the context of, the introductory course, Exact Science and Technology, and of Life Sciences in Space. The author describes the effects of microgravity on human ageing, as well as the essential counter measures.
In deze masterscriptie wordt onderzocht of het mogelijk is om natuurlijke grondstoffen in de ruim... more In deze masterscriptie wordt onderzocht of het mogelijk is om natuurlijke grondstoffen in de ruimte te ontginnen, zonder het internationaal recht daarbij te schenden.
The objective of this paper is to understand how arbitration in sports matters relates to commerc... more The objective of this paper is to understand how arbitration in sports matters relates to commercial arbitration in general. More specifically, the focus will be on institutional arbitration, since the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) forms the main study object of this paper.
The ultimate purpose is to understand why the CAS is so unique in institutional arbitration. Despite the distinct and specific nature of sports disputes, the structure of sports arbitration is a very interesting study object in international commercial arbitration. Why is the need for arbitration so pressing in sports disputes? What are the most important assets of this system? What are the main points of criticism and what could potentially be improved? Finally, what is there to learn for other branches, or is it all about the specificity of sport?
Een bespreking van de maritieme politiek in de Bourgondische en Habsburgse Nederlanden met een ge... more Een bespreking van de maritieme politiek in de Bourgondische en Habsburgse Nederlanden met een gedetailleerde studie over de Ordonnantie op de Admiraliteit van 1488 en 1540.
Dit werk is een stagescriptie dat werd opgebouwd door ervaringen uit een drievoudige stage bij: ... more Dit werk is een stagescriptie dat werd opgebouwd door ervaringen uit een drievoudige stage bij: de strafuitvoeringsrechtbank in Gent, de gevangenis in Dendermonde en bij het advocatenbureau Buisseret & Mary.
This article is a wrap-up of my master's thesis research on the transfer of space technology. Ess... more This article is a wrap-up of my master's thesis research on the transfer of space technology. Essentially, outer space is a challenging environment (weightlessness, vacuum, temperature extremes) demanding for systems that are failure-proof, reliable, and durable. Because the resulting technologies are in a class of their own they can offer valuable attributes to terrestrial industries as well. Therefore, technology transfer is especially effective in the space field. The transfer of space technology towards terrestrial applications provides important returns as it stimulates innovation and spurs economic growth. Innovation is thus not always the invention of a brand-new or revolutionary technology. In fact, the most efficient innovations stem from using existing technologies for purposes unrelated to their original use in order to create something new (technology as an enabler) or to improve something that already exists (technology as a differentiator). This process, referred to as technology transfer also brings valorisation as ideas and concepts are moved from the laboratory to the marketplace. The intention is to get the maximum value out of technology development in order to boost the economical and industrial competitiveness. Contrary to what some consider a waste of money, investments in space thus offer a lot of utility with a high potential of spillovers. The process of TT with regard to space consists of three segments. The first includes upstream transfers, spinning in ground based technology to support space programmes (e.g. launchers, satellites, exploration). The second segment is not a direct form of TT but is about using space-enabled data (e.g. Earth observation, telecommunication, Global Navigation Satellite Systems). The third segment contains downstream transfers. This is the process of turning space technology (hardware or software, products, processes) into an application down on Earth. It is this downstream segment that will be discussed further throughout this article.
This report follows a conference on the Belgian contributions to the ExoMars mission. It gives a ... more This report follows a conference on the Belgian contributions to the ExoMars mission. It gives a brief overview on new finding with regard to Martian methane detections. Methane is an organic compound that may contain the key to the question if Mars ever harboured Life. Reports of methane in the Martian atmosphere form an intense topic of debate because detections have been very sporadic in time and location, and often fell at the limit of the instruments' detection limits. In contrast to such findings, methane was repeatedly reported by several missions in the past from the Martian surface. Most importantly, local samplings of Mars's atmosphere in the Gale crater, performed by Curiosity, showed positive detections. Studies based on more recent results between April to August 2018 from the Belgian NOMAD instrument on board ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter (TGO) and its accompanying instrument, the Russian spectrometer ACS, contributed to this debate by showing a surprising lack of methane. The ACS and NOMAD instruments did not detect any methane over a range of latitudes in both hemispheres, obtaining an upper limit for methane of about 0.05 ppbv. Based on the previous detected methane spikes, these new results imply that the gas must be destroyed on Mars in a very peculiar process, not yet understood.
Arkyd-6 is a mission of Planetary Resources, a company with the long term goal of asteroidmining.... more Arkyd-6 is a mission of Planetary Resources, a company with the long term goal of asteroidmining. In this paper, the focus is on orbital mechanics and mission design of Arkyd-6: from the overall objective, towards orbital parameters, launcher characteristics and a functional description of the spacecraft systems.
Building upon the provisions of the Outer Space Treaty (OST), the Moon Agreement (MA) was intende... more Building upon the provisions of the Outer Space Treaty (OST), the Moon Agreement (MA) was intended to initiate discussions on a detailed international regime for the exploitation of the natural resources of the Moon and other celestial bodies. However, only 18 states are party to the MA, none of which is a major spacefaring nation. The reason behind this broad rejection, is a misperception of the MA. Nevertheless, its principles build upon the provisions of the OST. Moreover, other existing exploitation regimes work on the same basis. It is thus hard to imagine a substantial differing alternative, a conclusion which was also confirmed by the outcome of the Hague Working Group, which building blocks stay relatively close to the MA’s guiding principles.
States have been looking for other options. The United States initiated the national route and Luxembourg followed this track with an even more ambitious law. It seems that this national approach gained traction, as more and more states show interest in national legislation for the utilisation of natural resources in space. Even China, traditionally maintaining a wait and see approach, has finally taken a stance by signing a memorandum of understanding with Luxembourg. Additionally, China’s recent achievements on the Moon demonstrate its significance as a spacefaring nation, an emerging space giant which is only in its infancy.
With different nations wielding their own national legislation, attempting to enable their private industries to commence in space resource utilisation activities, a highly competitive contest could ignite. Following this scenario, the Moon, once shining in the unique and peaceful international space environment, turns red. Such a symbolic image would not only be representative for China’s emergence in space, but could also become illustrative for what would be a worst-case scenario: a commercial bloodbath between private companies relying on domestic legislation, at the expense of an international regime.
What is now the gravity of such a prospected red Moon? Taking into account the present course of events, it seems impossible to alter the negative perception of the MA. With China supporting the Luxembourg initiative, it looks like yet another major spacefaring nation, potentially even the major spacefaring nation, has forsaken the MA. However, looks can be deceiving.
In the first part of this paper, the rejection of the MA will be discussed. Next, the author explores whether it is possible at all, without violating the OST, to deviate from the only set of binding principles in the MA, stated in Article 11 paragraph 7, that must be achieved for the establishment of an international regime. Finally, the opportunities and threats of a red Moon will be analysed.
This paper was presented before ESA astronaut Frank De Winne, for the course of Questions in Spac... more This paper was presented before ESA astronaut Frank De Winne, for the course of Questions in Space Studies. In the paper, a European position is suggested in relation with China. The historical background, policy, and international relations of China as a spacefaring nation are thereby considered.
Based on an overview of the past, present, and potential future of a Sino-European partnership, Europe’s potential role, both of ESA and the EU in a broader international context is analysed.
China is continuously developing its space capabilities. The descent on the far side of the Moon was not only a historic achievement in space exploration, but also a strong signal and concrete expression of its rising capabilities to the rest of the world. Nevertheless, China desires to engage extensively in international cooperation. Although the nation still faces trust issues, one can speak of a window of opportunity to boost global cooperation with regard to human space exploration.
This paper was written for the course of Space Sciences and Exploration, during the Master of Spa... more This paper was written for the course of Space Sciences and Exploration, during the Master of Space Studies. The paper provides an overview of the threats and opportunities with regard to near-Earth asteroids. From asteroid impacts and planetary defence techniques, to exploration missions and commercial opportunities of asteroid mining.
This paper was written during the Master of Space Studies in the context of, the introductory cou... more This paper was written during the Master of Space Studies in the context of, the introductory course, Exact Science and Technology, and of Life Sciences in Space. The author describes the effects of microgravity on human ageing, as well as the essential counter measures.
In deze masterscriptie wordt onderzocht of het mogelijk is om natuurlijke grondstoffen in de ruim... more In deze masterscriptie wordt onderzocht of het mogelijk is om natuurlijke grondstoffen in de ruimte te ontginnen, zonder het internationaal recht daarbij te schenden.
The objective of this paper is to understand how arbitration in sports matters relates to commerc... more The objective of this paper is to understand how arbitration in sports matters relates to commercial arbitration in general. More specifically, the focus will be on institutional arbitration, since the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) forms the main study object of this paper.
The ultimate purpose is to understand why the CAS is so unique in institutional arbitration. Despite the distinct and specific nature of sports disputes, the structure of sports arbitration is a very interesting study object in international commercial arbitration. Why is the need for arbitration so pressing in sports disputes? What are the most important assets of this system? What are the main points of criticism and what could potentially be improved? Finally, what is there to learn for other branches, or is it all about the specificity of sport?
Een bespreking van de maritieme politiek in de Bourgondische en Habsburgse Nederlanden met een ge... more Een bespreking van de maritieme politiek in de Bourgondische en Habsburgse Nederlanden met een gedetailleerde studie over de Ordonnantie op de Admiraliteit van 1488 en 1540.
Dit werk is een stagescriptie dat werd opgebouwd door ervaringen uit een drievoudige stage bij: ... more Dit werk is een stagescriptie dat werd opgebouwd door ervaringen uit een drievoudige stage bij: de strafuitvoeringsrechtbank in Gent, de gevangenis in Dendermonde en bij het advocatenbureau Buisseret & Mary.
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States have been looking for other options. The United States initiated the national route and Luxembourg followed this track with an even more ambitious law. It seems that this national approach gained traction, as more and more states show interest in national legislation for the utilisation of natural resources in space. Even China, traditionally maintaining a wait and see approach, has finally taken a stance by signing a memorandum of understanding with Luxembourg. Additionally, China’s recent achievements on the Moon demonstrate its significance as a spacefaring nation, an emerging space giant which is only in its infancy.
With different nations wielding their own national legislation, attempting to enable their private industries to commence in space resource utilisation activities, a highly competitive contest could ignite. Following this scenario, the Moon, once shining in the unique and peaceful international space environment, turns red. Such a symbolic image would not only be representative for China’s emergence in space, but could also become illustrative for what would be a worst-case scenario: a commercial bloodbath between private companies relying on domestic legislation, at the expense of an international regime.
What is now the gravity of such a prospected red Moon? Taking into account the present course of events, it seems impossible to alter the negative perception of the MA. With China supporting the Luxembourg initiative, it looks like yet another major spacefaring nation, potentially even the major spacefaring nation, has forsaken the MA. However, looks can be deceiving.
In the first part of this paper, the rejection of the MA will be discussed. Next, the author explores whether it is possible at all, without violating the OST, to deviate from the only set of binding principles in the MA, stated in Article 11 paragraph 7, that must be achieved for the establishment of an international regime. Finally, the opportunities and threats of a red Moon will be analysed.
Based on an overview of the past, present, and potential future of a Sino-European partnership, Europe’s potential role, both of ESA and the EU in a broader international context is analysed.
China is continuously developing its space capabilities. The descent on the far side of the Moon was not only a historic achievement in space exploration, but also a strong signal and concrete expression of its rising capabilities to the rest of the world. Nevertheless, China desires to engage extensively in international cooperation. Although the nation still faces trust issues, one can speak of a window of opportunity to boost global cooperation with regard to human space exploration.
The ultimate purpose is to understand why the CAS is so unique in institutional arbitration. Despite the distinct and specific nature of sports disputes, the structure of sports arbitration is a very interesting study object in international commercial arbitration. Why is the need for arbitration so pressing in sports disputes? What are the most important assets of this system? What are the main points of criticism and what could potentially be improved? Finally, what is there to learn for other branches, or is it all about the specificity of sport?
States have been looking for other options. The United States initiated the national route and Luxembourg followed this track with an even more ambitious law. It seems that this national approach gained traction, as more and more states show interest in national legislation for the utilisation of natural resources in space. Even China, traditionally maintaining a wait and see approach, has finally taken a stance by signing a memorandum of understanding with Luxembourg. Additionally, China’s recent achievements on the Moon demonstrate its significance as a spacefaring nation, an emerging space giant which is only in its infancy.
With different nations wielding their own national legislation, attempting to enable their private industries to commence in space resource utilisation activities, a highly competitive contest could ignite. Following this scenario, the Moon, once shining in the unique and peaceful international space environment, turns red. Such a symbolic image would not only be representative for China’s emergence in space, but could also become illustrative for what would be a worst-case scenario: a commercial bloodbath between private companies relying on domestic legislation, at the expense of an international regime.
What is now the gravity of such a prospected red Moon? Taking into account the present course of events, it seems impossible to alter the negative perception of the MA. With China supporting the Luxembourg initiative, it looks like yet another major spacefaring nation, potentially even the major spacefaring nation, has forsaken the MA. However, looks can be deceiving.
In the first part of this paper, the rejection of the MA will be discussed. Next, the author explores whether it is possible at all, without violating the OST, to deviate from the only set of binding principles in the MA, stated in Article 11 paragraph 7, that must be achieved for the establishment of an international regime. Finally, the opportunities and threats of a red Moon will be analysed.
Based on an overview of the past, present, and potential future of a Sino-European partnership, Europe’s potential role, both of ESA and the EU in a broader international context is analysed.
China is continuously developing its space capabilities. The descent on the far side of the Moon was not only a historic achievement in space exploration, but also a strong signal and concrete expression of its rising capabilities to the rest of the world. Nevertheless, China desires to engage extensively in international cooperation. Although the nation still faces trust issues, one can speak of a window of opportunity to boost global cooperation with regard to human space exploration.
The ultimate purpose is to understand why the CAS is so unique in institutional arbitration. Despite the distinct and specific nature of sports disputes, the structure of sports arbitration is a very interesting study object in international commercial arbitration. Why is the need for arbitration so pressing in sports disputes? What are the most important assets of this system? What are the main points of criticism and what could potentially be improved? Finally, what is there to learn for other branches, or is it all about the specificity of sport?