Researcher

Yana Yakushina

Research disciplines
  • Social sciences
    • Environmental law
    • International law
    • Other law and legal studies not elsewhere classified
    • Environment policy
    • Public policy
Bio
Yana Yakushina is a lawyer, researcher, and advocate for dark sky protection. She is actively involved in initiatives related to dark sky protection and space law. Currently pursuing a Ph.D. at the University of Ghent (Belgium) as part of the Horizon EU project - PLAN-B, I am actively shaping the legal narrative around light pollution as a critical environmental concern. I also serve as a scientific coordinator of the PLAN-B project and I enhance efforts to establish a robust legal framework for addressing the negative effects of Artificial Light at Night (ALAN). On the space law front, she serves as the Deputy Executive Director at the Space Court Foundation Inc. and is involved in various projects related to space regulations, 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, Ministry of the Environment of the Czech Republic, Ministry of Innovation and Technology of Spain, Dark-Sky International, Starlight Foundation, 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 (IDA), 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.