For the future, the Future Launchers Preparatory Programme should continue to develop and mature critical technologies that underpin capabilities Europe will need later this decade and in the 2030s. FLPP should be tasked to focus on reusable and environmentally sustainable space systems, along with preparatory activities for the advent of human space transportation capabilities.

To support the development of an independent, commercial European launch and space transportation industry, the Boost! programme should be enlarged to include new ground-based and in-flight services required by commercial operators. Furthermore, a proposed EU-ESA European Flight Ticket Initiative would co-fund rides to space for selected ready-to-fly satellites in need of an in-orbit demonstration or validation mission to prove their capabilities.

Continued development of the Space Rider reusable transportation system will deliver a unique strategic European capability. Its realisation will open paths to new applications in in-orbit demonstration and validation, micro-gravity research, robotics and servicing.

And, maintenance and modernisation of Europe’s Spaceport in French Guiana should include the strategic development of infrastructure. Benefits will include improved commercialisation for a green, digital Europe, improved safety and security, and preparation for critical programme challenges.

Director of Space Transportation Daniel Neuenschwander says: “Everything Europe wants to achieve in space is dependent on a reliable, scalable and technologically advanced space transportation capability, complemented by the ability to operate in orbit and to manage the return to Earth of important assets.

“Sustaining our development momentum is an investment in the future of Europe.”