UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has named Aarti Holla-Maini, an Indian-origin satellite industry expert from the United Kingdom, as the new Director of the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) in Vienna. Holla-Maini will take over the position from Simonetta Di Pippo of Italy.

The appointment highlights the UN's focus on advancing space exploration and cooperation, and Holla-Maini's expertise in the field is expected to contribute to the organization's efforts in harnessing the potential of outer space for the benefit of all nations.

Aarti Holla-Maini, the newly appointed Director of the United Nations Offices for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA), brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her role. With over 25 years of professional involvement in the space sector, including managerial and advocacy positions, Holla-Maini is well-equipped to advance the UNOOSA's mission of promoting international cooperation in space exploration and utilization.

Prior to her appointment, Holla-Maini served as the Executive Vice-President Sustainability, Policy & Impact at NorthStar Earth & Space. Additionally, she held the position of Secretary-General for more than 18 years at the Global Satellite Operators Association. Her extensive involvement in the space industry includes contributing to various initiatives and advisory groups, such as the World Economic Forum's Global Future Council on Space and the Advisory Group of the Space Sustainability Rating.

Holla-Maini's notable contributions extend beyond her professional roles. She played a key role in establishing the Crisis Connectivity Charter in 2015, which facilitated emergency telecommunications via satellite in collaboration with the UN World Food Program's Emergency Telecommunications Cluster.

Educationally, Holla-Maini holds a bachelor's degree in law with German law from Kings College London, UK, and a master's degree in business administration from HEC Paris, France. With Holla-Maini's diverse background and expertise, her leadership in UNOOSA is expected to further promote sustainable development and the peaceful utilization of space science and technology for the benefit of humanity.

Image source: One India