Topic Summary

Since the adoption of the Outer Space Treaty in 1963, the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs has yet to adopt any major global resolutions addressing space exploration. In order to address this situation, this committee tasks delegates to build upon existing international regulatory frameworks, and work towards their vision for the future of space exploration, in light of the new technology developments and their potential consequences. 

First, delegates will focus on regulating the physical resources existing in space, tackling issues such as the removal of space debris, while preparing for a future in which mining of natural resources in space and colonization efforts could become commonplace. Questions regarding the ownership of these currently untapped resources are important to avoid international disputes and abuse by the world’s most powerful nations and their space agencies. Second, this committee aims to discuss questions surrounding the safe and ethical implementation of new technologies in the space exploration industry, such as artificial intelligence for autonomous satellite navigation and mass surveillance using satellite imagery. To foster international collaboration, delegates will also discuss measures to promote the participation of nations without dedicated space agencies, for example by miniaturizing space technology to decrease its cost.

Director’s Letter

Dear Delegates, 

My name is Margaret Bowles and I am beyond excited to be serving as director of UNOOSA (United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs) this year at HNMUN 2025. I am from Dover Massachusetts which is a small town around 40 minutes outside of Boston. At Harvard,  I am studying Government and Sociology on the Pre-Law track. When I’m not competing in Model UN committees, I love spending time outside running, hiking, biking and generally exploring. I am also involved with the Phillips Brooks House, a volunteer organization on campus, and in Massachusetts state-level politics. 

I was first introduced to Model UN my junior year of high school where I had the opportunity to attend HMUN as my first-ever conference. I am pleased to report that I had such a good time competing at HMUN my junior and senior year in high school that I decided to enter the land of MUN in college, as well! Currently, I compete on the North American circuit with Harvard’s competitive Model UN team, ICMUN, where I have spent most of my time competing in GAs and non-traditionals. I love the people and culture that Model UN at Harvard has allowed me to connect with. I can’t wait to take my enthusiasm for Model UN to HNMUN and direct the UNOOSA committee this year! 

I am excited to delve into this rich topic with you all this February. I expect our topics to yield lively debate and creative resolutions. Throughout the committee, I expect that all delegates will keep their conduct positive and help create a constructive environment. I am always happy to help both in committee and ahead of time. 

I look forward to meeting all of you! 

Best regards,

Margaret Bowles

Director, United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs