The Disappearance of the Mexican Space Agency (AEM)
The Mexican Space Agency (AEM) has been dissolved by decree, with its functions and personnel now falling under the jurisdiction of the newly established Agency for Digital Transformation (ATDT). This change stems from a constitutional reform that mandates the ATDT to oversee public policy in telecommunications and satellite infrastructure.
Concerns from Former AEM Employees
Former AEM employees, affected by austerity measures and organizational “simplification,” have expressed disagreement with the redrafting of institutions. They argue that critical attributes necessary for space sector development are left out, and they advocate for the AEM’s continuation as a specialized body with clear authority and mandate, now proposed to be integrated into the new Secretariat of Science, Technology, and Humanities.
ATDT’s Mandate and AEM’s Responsibilities
The ATDT will be responsible for the administration, operation, and commercialization of telecommunications satellite infrastructure and resources. Meanwhile, the AEM’s functions related to space policy formulation, development of space systems, scientific research, talent cultivation, standardization and regulation, industrial development, environmental sustainability, international collaboration, and advising the federal government on international space agreements will be absorbed into a general direction within the ATDT.
The Broader Significance of Mexico’s Space Sector
Mexico’s space sector extends beyond Earth observation, navigation, and geolocation to encompass diverse fields such as robotics, experimental propulsion, meteorology, and more. Its economic relevance is undeniable, with the global space industry estimated at $400 billion annually in 2023, according to the Satellite Industry Association. The World Economic Forum projects this figure to reach $1.8 trillion by 2035, growing at an annual rate of 9%, surpassing the average global GDP growth.
Despite the AEM’s existence and efforts, there was no executive-driven space policy prioritizing space as a key driver for Mexico’s economic, technological, and social development until this current administration. However, challenges persist, including reliance on foreign suppliers for satellite systems, the need for long-term policies ensuring technological sovereignty in telecommunications, satellite observation, and navigation, insufficient investment in space sciences and technologies, and the necessity for a robust legal framework aligned with Mexico’s Special Space Program and sectoral needs.
Key Questions and Answers
- What happened to the Mexican Space Agency (AEM)? The AEM has been dissolved by decree, and its functions are now under the Agency for Digital Transformation (ATDT).
- What are the ATDT’s responsibilities regarding space? The ATDT will handle the administration, operation, and commercialization of telecommunications satellite infrastructure and resources.
- What role did the AEM play that is now absent? The AEM was responsible for formulating space policy, developing space systems, scientific research, talent cultivation, standardization and regulation, industrial development, environmental sustainability, international collaboration, and advising the federal government on space agreements.
- Why is Mexico’s space sector significant? The global space industry was valued at $400 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach $1.8 trillion by 2035, growing at an annual rate of 9%. Developing a prosperous and sovereign space sector in Mexico is crucial to capitalize on the growing space economy and prevent further lag.
- What challenges does Mexico’s space sector face? Challenges include dependence on foreign suppliers for satellite systems, the need for long-term policies ensuring technological sovereignty in telecommunications, satellite observation, and navigation, insufficient investment in space sciences and technologies, and the necessity for a robust legal framework aligned with Mexico’s Special Space Program and sectoral needs.
