space stations (1978-1981) were an important stage in the INTERCOSMOS programme. The long-term plans are now being prepared for activities in the period up to the year 2900. The long-term programme for space physics includes the following: investigation of planets and minor bodies in the solar system (programmes for the study of Mars, the Moon, Venus, the giant planets, comets and asteroids); study of space plasma; extra-atmospheric astronomy (construction in outer space of large telescopes and telescope systems); materials science in space A/AC.105/C.2/16/Add.5 page 4 (fundamental research, the aim of which is to contribute towards the laying of the fowidations for the trial production of new materials and, in the longer term, the creation of a space manufacturing unit); the use of space vehicles for geodesy and geography. II. Multilateral co-operation within the framework of the INTERSPUTNIK International Organization for Space Communications In November 1971, representatives of the Governments of the USSR, Bulgaria, Cuba, Czechoslovakia, the German Democratic Republic, Hungary, Mongolia, Poland and Romania signed the Agreement on the establishment of the INTERSPUTNIK international space communications system and organization. Vie~ Nam, Afghanistan, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Laos, Nicaragua and Democratic Yemen subsequently adhered to the Agreement. The purpose of the organization is to co-ordinate the efforts of the member States in the design, building, operation and development of a system for telecommunications via artificial Earth satellites. INTERSPUTNIK is an open-ended international organization whose features include the presence of legal guarantees for the development of co-operation among all States without restriction and the legal and factual safeguarding of equality of rights as between its member cowitries. Co-operation agreements have been concluded between INTERSPUTNIK and the International Radio and Television Organization and the International Maritime Satellite Organization (INMARSAT) and between the Directors-General of INTERSPUTNIK and ITU and there 
**Analysis**
The text primarily focuses on the INTERCOSMOS programme, a Soviet-led international space exploration initiative. It discusses long-term plans, space physics research, and international cooperation in space communications. The text highlights the scientific and technological aspects of space exploration, with no apparent references to economic development, agriculture, forestry, fishing, health, education, employment, humanitarian aid, or culture.

**Category**
Transport and communication, Science and technology