The V in ESV
I've visited space companies large and small, toured agencies across Europe, walked through the Earth-bound replica of the ISS in Houston, and seen Mission Control from the inside. I've engaged with astronauts, scientists, visionaries, and skeptics alike. I've pored over books, studies, and consulted experts. I've actively shaped European space policy and debated with it’s most influential figures.
Yet, despite this wealth of experience, I was recently stumped by a simple question: "What’s Europe doing in space?"
Of course, I know many answers to this question. From Earth observation, to deep space exploration. Research from smallest crystals to ginormous, fire spitting engines. From live saving medical understanding to cordless drills. Space exploration brings immense good, the investments pay off manifold. But even if everyone can list all the benefits, there is just no unified answer.
It is different in the USA. There the answer is clear and consistent: to reach Mars. Whether through SLS or Starship, with or without a lunar stopover, with extensive research or minimal preparation, Democrat or Republican, the details may vary, but the goal remains steadfast. And of course, there is this inherent American overconfidence in this ambition.
China has a goal on its own: By 2049, China aims to be the leading space power. Its path is marked by logical progression and clear sub-goals: powerful launchers, intelligent satellites, landings on the far side of the Moon, orbital rendezvous, probes to other planets, and advanced space stations. Each capability is systematically developed to achieve absolute leadership.
Actually, every spacefaring nation has set ambitious goals and devised plans to achieve them. Europe, however, seems to lack this clarity. We do a bit of everything and excel in many areas. Our universities train some of the best minds. Academic freedom fosters ideologically unconstrained discovery. Our social systems enable access to higher education for all, not just the wealthy. Yet, we lack that singular, unifying goal.
This fragmentation is partly due to Europe's structure of small states, each pursuing its own path with varying focus but little coordination. The EU and ESA differ in membership, and numerous national agencies run their own programs. For many politicians, investments in ESA and national programs are a checkbox item—a necessity because it has always been done, because a progressive nation with intellectual prowess should engage in space exploration.
However, they fail to see the current value of space exploration and, more critically, its future role. They do not recognize the future worth of today's discoveries, the advantages of a sovereign space industry, or the risks of neglect. The current situation, with numerous programs lacking coherent direction, has become too comfortable for too many.
Europe can no longer afford this luxury. The time has come to act. Our future security, knowledge, and prosperity depend on recognizing the value of space exploration and seizing the opportunities before us. We have the know-how, the brilliant minds, and the necessary infrastructure. We have the spirit of research and entrepreneurship, the hunger to create. We have the means and resources. We have everything needed to lead in space exploration. What we lack is the goal, the vision.
This is why we founded our initiative this year. If politics cannot inspire us or provide a goal, then we, the citizens, must take the lead. This is the essence of democracy. Neither an autocratic president nor a eccentric billionaire should dictate our future—only we can. I invite you to be part of this future in space exploration. Join us in shaping the vision. For a Europe that demonstrates leadership and keeps space free and democratic. For a future where space exploration enhances our lives and addresses humanity's grand questions collectively. For a European Space Vision.