What has happened?
The Council had a policy discussion on several important space-related topics and approved conclusions on Space for Everyone.
Why this is important?
Space plays a key role for top EU priorities such as long-term sustainable growth, digital transition and green transition. The priorities in terms of space policy actions for the next months were discussed by the Council. There is a political willingness to support the space sector and develop the New Space industry.
What is in it for you?
The Council’s Ministers showed their determination to progress on the following topics:
- continuation of Galileo and Copernicus (2nd generation)
- the “secure connectivity initiative” to provide broadband access and ensure resilient communications
- a European approach to space traffic management (STM) and contributions to international STM discussions
- supporting the entrepreneurial ecosystem for space, including by setting up a €1 billion European fund, and making Europe a hub for space startups
- synergies between space and defense.
The Conclusion on Space for Everyone supported the need to:
- better include starups and SMEs in the European space system
- ensure equal access to space and the long-term sustainable development of New Space
- strengthen the links between the space and non-space sectors
- raise awareness on all available public funding tools.
Next steps
The Council discussions pave the way for the possible:
- setting up of the €1billion space fund during Q1/2022
- adaption of a legislative proposal on the secure connectivity initiative in Q2 2022
adoption of a Commission Communication on STM in Q2 2022.