ESA and Commission join forces in space
A new joint task force designed to implement an agreed European space strategy met for the first time in Brussels on 2 March. Established by the European space agency (ESA) and the European Commission, the task force will carry out the European strategy for space endorsed by the European research council and ESA's council at ministerial level on November 16. The strategy has three main priorities: to strengthen the foundation for space activities in Europe, to enhance scientific knowledge for a better understanding of our planet, solar system and universe and to reap the benefits for markets and society through exploitation of technical space capabilities. The main issues on the agenda of the task force's first meeting concerned the present state of the Galileo project, global monitoring for environment and security (GMES) and looking into setting up a work plan for the year. 'This set-up and work of this joint task force illustrate the role that I see for the Commission in developing a true space policy for Europe and in getting everyone to work together around common goals,' said European Research Commissioner, Philippe Busquin. 'It is a concrete step in building a European research area, in a field that is of strategic interest to European and can bring concrete benefits to citizens for example in improved monitoring of our environment or a more efficient transport system. Antonio Rodotà, director general of ESA added that the joint task force will continue and develop the shared effort in 2000 which led to joint endorsement of the European strategy for space by the ESA and EU councils. 'With the joint task force, Europe is taking another step towards a new era in which space systems will become an integral part of the overall political and economic drive to promote the interests of Europe's citizens.'