Department of Air, Sea, and Space

The scientific fields related to the various dimensions of AIR, SEA, and SPACE hold immense theoretical and practical significance today, warranting deeper exploration from a multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary perspective. Highlighting the importance of these areas, CEAD Francisco Suárez has established a new department, introduced here, exclusively dedicated to their research.

The Department of Air, Sea, and Space aims to become a central hub for all sciences focused on these critical domains within the Portuguese research landscape, with Law serving as the unifying thread. To achieve this, we advocate for forging partnerships with other national and international universities, as well as with relevant companies and institutions, thereby connecting the University to the broader community. We recognize this as an ambitious goal, which makes it all the more stimulating.

There is much to be done. In the field of Air, encompassing the so-called airspace, we highlight drones, whose analysis involves not only Law but also other areas such as Internal Security Studies. In the Sea, or ocean domain, alongside all issues related to Public International Maritime Law, it is essential to strengthen bridges with Maritime Law, fostering the integration of these areas. Regarding Space, primarily outer space, research on Space Law remains in its infancy but is undeniably crucial and indispensable. The rationale for uniting these distinct fields also lies in the research potential arising from their intersection, such as the use of satellites in marine research or the legal definition of boundaries between airspace and outer space, including related jurisdictional issues.

As stated, we aim to serve as a meeting point for diverse perspectives and approaches—a place for study, reflection, and free thought, not only academic or for academics but open to all who view Air, Sea, and Space as challenging and inspiring domains.