How Sicily's geographical characteristics and strategic position in Europe can favor its economic development by contributing to the New Space Economy

This paper explores how Sicily’s unique geographical features and strategic location within Europe can foster its economic development through participation in the New Space Economy (NSE). By analyzing Sicily’s current economic challenges—such as high unemployment, brain drain, and infrastructural deficits—alongside its advantages, including a central Mediterranean position and potential for digital infrastructure, the study demonstrates that targeted policy interventions could enable the region to leverage space-based technologies. The research highlights opportunities for growth in sectors like agriculture, logistics, and data-driven enterprises, emphasizing the need for region-specific policies such as enhancing Special Economic Zones, aligning local regulations with national space laws, incentivizing investment, and strengthening educational linkages to the space sector. Ultimately, the findings suggest that, with strategic action, Sicily could transform from a peripheral economy into a Mediterranean hub for innovation and space-driven economic activity, though this opportunity is contingent on overcoming persistent structural barriers.