… is a lawyer, researcher, and dark sky protection educator. She is actively involved in initiatives related to dark sky protection and space law.
Currently pursuing a PhD at the University of Ghent (Belgium) as part of the Horizon EU project – PLAN-B, Yana is actively shaping the legal framework for recognising light pollution as a critical environmental concern. Yana also serves as one of the scientific coordinators of the PLAN-B project. On the space law front, she serves as the Deputy Executive Director at the Space Court Foundation Inc., overseeing projects that regulate space activities globally, including the “Big Book of Space Law.”
Yana has successfully participated in international legal research projects in dark sky protection and space law, collaborating with organizations such as the EU Commission, DarkSky International, Starlight Foundation, International Astronomical Union, and UNOOSA, among others. Leading a research group within the IAU CPS Policy Hub, Yana analyzes national approaches to protecting dark and quiet skies.
Additionally, Yana is a member and advisor of various NGOs, including Dark-Sky International, Starlight Foundation, and the International Institute of Space Law (IISL). In 2023, she became a board member and co-founder of the Belgian dark sky protection organization – Living Night (IDA Chapter)…