Europe’s actions in space are not guided by a single unified European space strategy but rather by a tangle of different and inherently contending space strategies that reflect a rather complex interplay of distinct constituencies composing the triangular structure of the European space governance.
This document proposes a set of initial perspectives on a European space strategy, elaborated by ESPI as part of its mandate to provide independent analyses and recommendations on strategic space issues to European decision-makers and institutions.
It is informed primarily by two European Space Strategy Workshops with ESPI members, advisors and external experts in August and September 2024. The reflections are part of ESPI’s work to translate elements of the ESPI2040 vision into the first steps of a European Space Strategy.
The initial perspectives presented through this document provide an elaboration on the security & defence and economic perspectives of a European Space Strategy. The ambition is to contribute to the development of the overall European Space Policy, in line with the EU Council Conclusions of May 2024.
The document also outlines further items that may deserve to be elaborated in the near future, e.g. the dimension of Europe’s place in the world and as a space power, including in space exploration, the shift towards leveraging space for diplomacy or seizing the catalytic benefits in Science & Technology beyond the traditional perimeters.