ESA and the EU adopt a common strategy for space
Ministers representing the member states of the European Space Agency and the European Union agreed to adopt a common strategy for space at an extraordinary meeting following the Research Council in Brussels on 16 November. This follows the publication a joint EC/ESA document on a European Space Strategy, released earlier this month. This is the first time the two Councils have met on the same date and at the same place to adopt resolutions steered towards achieving a common framework for all actors in European space sector. The European strategy for space identifies three lines of action: - Strengthening the foundations for space activities - to broaden space technology and to help guarantee access to space through a family of launch vehicles. - Enhancing scientific knowledge - seeing Europe pursue cutting edge themes of space science and space contributions to the understanding of our planet's climate. It includes human space flight and optimisation of the use of the International Space Station as an infrastructure for European research in all disciplines of space science. - Reaping the benefits for society and markets - focussing on the satellite communications and the information technology sector, satellite navigation and positioning (Galileo) and systems monitoring the Earth for environment and security. 'This is where close cooperation between ESA and the EC will be most instrumental in putting space systems at the service of European policies responding to citizen's expectations,' says ESA. The Strategy also covers industrial aspects and pays specific attention to small and medium sized enterprises. The two Councils' resolutions endorse the setting up of a cooperative structure bringing together the ESA Executive and the European Commission. They will now set up an interim high level task force to make proposals for the continuing development of the European space strategy and its implementation. 'Through these resolutions, the European space policy takes its first step into a new phase in which space systems become an integral part of the overall political and economic efforts of European states - whether members of ESA or the EU - to promote the interests of European citizens, ' said ESA Director general, Antonio Rodotà. As a next step the ministers have invited Mr Rodotà to prepare programme proposals on the basis of the strategy and to submit them to the ESA Council meeting at ministerial level in November 2001.