SpaceVision 26
Policy Debate
Accepting Applications Now
Participate in a student-led policy debate for SpaceVision 2026 and grow your debate and communication skills. This year's debate will revolve around orbital governance, where students will debate the resolution:
“The United Nations should establish a binding International Space Traffic Management Organization (ISTMO) with the authority to deny orbital slot access to non-compliant sovereign states.”
The essence of this resolution asks an important and increasing relevant question, where space is showing it as an increasingly defensive stronghold. Should a world government prevent non-compliant countries from granting access to orbit slots?
Winner is announced at the Gala.
Featuring Charles Mudd and Brad Kimball as Judges!
The discussion will include:
- Four student-led keynotes either affirming or negating the resolution
- 20 minutes of open discussion
- Panel Judge Q&A
- A closing vote to affirm or negate the resolution.
Any student interested in this topic is encouraged to apply as a keynote speaker, regardless of debate experience. Applications close October 18 at 11:59 PM ET. No application is necessary to participate in the open discussion and vote on the resolution.
Who Can Apply?
The Policy Debate is open to all students present at SpaceVision. You do not need to be a SEDS member to apply. Gala ticket not required but highly encouraged. We encourage all interested students to attend, participate, and share their perspective!
Judges:
Brad Kimball: Head of Aerospace & NewSpace Practice, VSSF Aerospace Law Group
Charles Mudd: Founder and Principal, Mudd Law
Contact us at spacevision@seds.org
2025 Winner
Trevor Darr — Duke University
“Regardless what side you take on the issue of if we should allow free market principles to govern space economics, you're bound to say something naive. The point of space policy is to predict which of these naivetes will become the founding principles of the future.”