- The SCP program will use diplomacy, funding and private-sector engagement to support space cooperation
- The State Department plans to help partner nations access U.S. space technologies and services
- Trade delegations and industry events will connect U.S. space companies with overseas customers
The Department of State has launched the Space Catalyst Partnership, or SCP, an initiative to expand civil and commercial space cooperation between the U.S. and countries that have signed the Artemis Accords.
How Will the Space Catalyst Partnership Operate?
The initiative, launched in Lima, Peru, will use diplomacy, funding and private-sector engagement to support international space cooperation, with foreign assistance activities dependent on available funds. The partnership was announced during Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s visit to Peru, which also focused on broader U.S.-Peru security, economic and technology cooperation.
Through diplomatic efforts, the State Department plans to help provide partner nations access to U.S. space technologies and services and expand trade delegations focused on the sector. The approach builds on the department’s earlier space diplomacy efforts, including its 2023 Strategic Framework for Space Diplomacy, which called for greater international cooperation and the foreign use of U.S. space capabilities.
Funding efforts will initially support the proposed $6.5 million satellite connectivity project in Peru and could help emerging spacefaring countries adopt U.S. space capabilities for applications beyond the space sector, including agriculture, transportation, energy and communications.
The department also plans to connect U.S. space companies with prospective customers overseas and create more opportunities for direct engagement in priority markets. The effort follows earlier State Department initiatives to involve companies and other non-governmental organizations in international space commerce activities. Its diplomatic channels will be used to promote American companies at space industry events such as forums and international trade shows.
What Is the Peru Rural Connectivity Project?
Southern Peru is set to receive one of the SCP’s initial projects, a proposed $6.5 million effort to provide satellite-based internet to rural schools, small businesses, community centers and public institutions. The State Department is working with Congress on the project, which is subject to available funding. The effort is intended to help priority countries incorporate space-related technology and services into their economies.
