28 November 2022

[CMIN 2022] Key announcements of the ESA ministerial meeting

The ESA ministerial conference came to a close on Wednesday 23 November. Several major European priorities in the space sector were discussed, with funding planned for the next three years. 

Europe's space ambitions

On 22 and 23 November 2022, representatives of the 22 Member States of the European Space Agency met in Paris to decide on the various budgets to be allocated to European space projects over the next three years. 

Ministérielle de l'ESA le 22 et 23 novembre 2022.

During this ministerial meeting, the Member States announced the main European priorities in the space sector: 

 

Independent access to space

 

Independent access to space has been recognised as a key challenge for Europe's sovereignty. This entails strengthening the Ariane 6 and Vega-C launchers and pursuing the development of the reusable shuttle, Space Rider, which will be able to stay in low Earth orbit for more than two months before returning to Earth for refurbishment.

 

ESA and France are also funding the operation of Europe’s spaceport, as well as the investment needed to modernise it and make it greener, by developing a green hydrogen booster for Ariane launchers, which will take off from Europe's spaceport.

 

Earth observation

 

Earth observation satellites and programmes such as Copernicus are a priority for anticipating and combating climate change. France is tripling its commitment to Earth observation by preparing cutting-edge research and development programmes in the field of Earth sciences, such as the Future EO programme.

 

Telecommunications

 

The field of satellite communications addresses major strategic and economic challenges. Permanent connectivity anywhere in the world will be ensured by developing and financing a new European satellite constellation, which will strengthen Europe's independence and competitive edge.

 

Space exploration

 

With its commitment to the future of space exploration, Europe will also be advancing scientific knowledge, exploiting its potential and opening up opportunities for the talents of tomorrow. The ESA-led high-level group on robotic exploration and manned spaceflight is currently at work. Policy decisions can be made after analysing the possible options.

 

For more details on the announcements made during the ESA ministerial:

ESA's press release

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