The topic of European competence in human space exploration was widely discussed. Here, participants saw a necessity in mastering the technologies that enable the sustainment of human life in very difficult conditions.

Some participants observed that the lead time in developing human spaceflight capabilities means decisions about its pursuit need to be taken now.

The notion that European competence in cargo delivery was a fair trade for astronaut transport was seen as a first but not sufficient step for Europe. And, participants noted, the inspirational impact of the human spaceflight effort would be far greater if the first European astronauts to travel to the Moon were to fly from Europe’s Spaceport with a European transportation system.

One point of agreement was that Europe offers very high-quality space transportation services. Europe, it was noted, delivers outstanding launch services from its spaceport in French Guiana, with many international customers coming back repeatedly owing to quality and reliability.

Daniel Neuenschwander, ESA’s Director of Space Transportation, called the event in Palermo a key milestone: “We have an ambitious transformation plan and the Spirit of Palermo will support that. Europe is building on a solid foundation, technically and commercially, and Europe is adapting to a fast-changing space market so it’s encouraging to see such intense engagement – and readiness to accelerate.

“Working together is the European way and that is our greatest strength.”