29814 (2026). Teanau Tuiono to the Minister for Space

29814 (2026). Teanau Tuiono to the Minister for Space: As a part of the National Risk Assessment for payload permit application BlackSky Global Gen-3 (A260482-PPT) is the Minister aware of any potential risks to people living in Gaza or the West Bank and if so what and if not why not?

Hon Chris Penk: The tests that I consider for granting a payload permit are set out in the Outer Space and High-altitude Activities Act 2017. I may grant a payload application when satisfied that the applicant can safely manage the payload, has an appropriate orbital debris mitigation plan, complies with New Zealand’s international obligations, and meets any other prescribed requirements. I also consider if the proposed operation is in the national interest taking into account the extent to which any risks can be mitigated through conditions on the permit. I was advised that the application met these tests and was in line with New Zealand’s policy approach to commercial remote sensing payloads. The remote sensing policy focuses on the capability of the technology rather than customers or end use because customers change over time and imagery can be on-sold. To manage any risks relating to the use of remote sensing data I placed standard conditions on the permit prohibiting the sale of data to any individual or entity that is on New Zealand’s designated terrorist list or subject to sanctions regulations. The remote sensing policy is available on the MBIE website here: https://www.mbie.govt.nz/dmsdocument/31183-commercial-remote-sensing-payloads-national-interest-considerations-and-approach-to-permitting-pdf