As a national security measure, the proposed legislation would restrict companies' ability to create and distribute 'militarily relevant' data attained by satellites The German government is taking a lead in Europe with draft legislation to control data generated by nongovernmental orbital systems.The draft Satellite Data Security Law aims to significantly curb the ability of commercial companies to create and distribute satellite-generated data of the country.The law will require anyone operating an “advanced orbital reconnaissance system” to obtain a permit from the government. Satellites, space stations and air-based transportation systems are among the reconnaissance systems mentioned in the draft law. Under the proposed law, operators must also conduct and document a series of checks on customers to ensure that requests for data don’t pose a threat to national security.Offenders could face a five-year prison term or a fine up to €500,000 ($646,000).The draft legislation comes as military and security officials in Germany warn of terrorist groups and others using data captured by satellites and other orbital systems to undermine the country’s security systems. The legislation refers to all sensor-generated signals that could be used to create photos, digital models, and other images as “militarily relevant” data.German lawmakers argue that if such data should fall into the wrong hands, it could breach not only Germany’s security systems but also those of neighboring countries. SecurityTechnology Industry