Sustainability in space refers to the use of environmentally conscious practices and technologies in space activities to minimize the negative impact on the space environment and promote responsible behavior in the use of space resources. Some of the key sustainability considerations in space include:

1. Space debris mitigation and remediation: The accumulation of space debris is a major concern, as it can cause collisions and pose a threat to active satellites and spacecraft. To address this issue, space agencies and organizations are working to develop technologies for removing space debris and implementing best practices for the disposal of space assets at the end of their life cycle.

2. Resource utilization: As human activities in space increase, it is important to develop sustainable practices for the use of space resources, such as water, energy, and materials. For example, utilizing renewable energy sources like solar and wind power can reduce reliance on non-renewable resources and minimize waste.

3. Space exploration: Exploration of space should be done in a sustainable manner that minimizes impact on the environment and respects the scientific and cultural value of other celestial bodies. Overall, sustainability in space is an important consideration for the long-term viability of space activities and the preservation of the space environment for future generations.

In the context of the space industry, the term «space upstream» refers to the development and manufacturing of space-related hardware and equipment, including spacecraft, satellites, launch vehicles, and ground support equipment.

The space upstream sector includes companies and organizations involved in the design, development, and testing of these technologies, as well as the supply chain that provides the raw materials, components, and subsystems necessary for their construction.

Space upstream activities are critical for the success of space missions and exploration, as they provide the tools and infrastructure necessary to operate in the harsh environment of space. This sector is a key driver of innovation, driving advances in materials science, propulsion systems, and other fields of engineering that have broader applications in other industries.

In the context of the space industry, the term «space downstream» refers to the use of space-related data and technologies to create products and services for end-users on Earth.

The space downstream sector includes companies and organizations that utilize data and technologies from space-based assets, such as satellites, to develop applications and services for various industries and sectors. Examples include Earth observation data for weather forecasting, disaster management, and agricultural monitoring; satellite-based navigation for transportation and logistics; and satellite-based communications for internet connectivity and remote connectivity.

Space downstream activities are focused on the development of products and services that have practical applications in everyday life. This sector is a growing area of the space industry, driven by advances in technology and the increasing availability of space-based data. It is expected to continue to grow as more companies and industries recognize the value of space-based technologies for improving efficiency, reducing costs, and creating new business opportunities.