Space

Space activities can be justified by a broad array of reasons, ranging from trans-utilitarian components (such as curiosity, discovery, knowledge, fascination, inspiration) to more utilitarian aspects (markets, jobs, communications, mobility, pace-setting technologies, among others). Clearly,...

The article provides an overview of the impact the policy framework for space activities has on commercial activities in Europe. It shows that the development of a space policy framework on the European level has, from the beginning, aimed at furthering commercial space activities and...

The purpose of this article is to analyse the impact of the financial and economic crisis on the space sector from a political point of view. Its focus is on the institutional space sector rather than on commercial space activities. In addition, Europe is placed at the centre of the analysis...

Although often overshadowed by a focus on security concerns, Space weather and NEOs are important elements of Europe’s SSA program.

The EU is currently developing a Maritime Security Strategy. Space should be integrated in that effort, given its potential for maritime surveillance.

Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) could help to enhance the societal benefits of communication satellites. However, European public entities must avoid the mistakes made during the Galileo concession negotiations.

The Global Monitoring for Environment and Security (GMES) Program is often overshadowed by what is perceived to be the flagship program of European space, Galileo. As a matter of fact, GMES is just as important and faces many similar challenges.

Space poses both an opportunity and a challenge for Europe. And so does the new provision of the Lisbon Treaty - article 189 TFEU - that awards the EU an explicit competency on space.

Galileo is one of the most ambitious programs ever managed by the EU. As such, it illustrates the challenges and the opportunities offered by the development of a European Space Policy at the political, industrial, economic and international level.

Today, Europe is taking initiatives both to prevent space weaponization and to develop space militarization. While national States remain the central players in this regard, the intergovernmental European Space Agency is increasingly involved in security-related activities and the European...