BREMEN— European Space Agency (ESA) member states have approved record contributions of €22.1 billion at the agency’s Ministerial Council in Bremen, Germany, marking the largest budget in ESA’s history.
Ministers and representatives from 23 member states, associate members and cooperating states backed increased funding for science, exploration and technology programmes, alongside a significant boost for space applications including Earth observation, navigation and telecommunications. These areas form the backbone of the European Resilience from Space initiative, aimed at strengthening security and resilience.
“This is a great success for Europe, and a really important moment for our autonomy and leadership in science and innovation,” ESA Director General Josef Aschbacher said. He noted the subscriptions represent a 32% increase on ESA’s 2022 Ministerial Council, or 17% when adjusted for inflation.
The meeting marked the first step in implementing ESA’s Strategy 2040, setting long-term objectives for Europe’s space ambitions.
Science and exploration
Member states pledged a historic increase of 3.5% per year above inflation for science, enabling missions under the Cosmic Vision plan such as LISA and NewAthena, and technology development for Voyage 2050, including the proposed ‘L4’ mission to Saturn’s moon Enceladus to search for life.
Exploration commitments include funding for the Rosalind Franklin Mars rover, now targeting a 2028 launch, and the Argonaut lunar lander. ESA also confirmed plans to maintain astronaut access to the International Space Station until 2030 and to develop a low Earth orbit cargo return service.
Security and resilience
Funding was approved for the European Resilience from Space initiative, which will provide high-resolution satellite imagery, new navigation services from low Earth orbit and secure connectivity. ESA also confirmed support for space safety missions including Ramses, to intercept asteroid Apophis in 2029, Vigil for space weather monitoring, and Rise for on-orbit servicing.
Technology and industry
ESA will strengthen investment in technology enablers, critical components and digitalisation to ensure non-dependence in key areas. Europe’s launchers Ariane 6 and Vega-C remain priorities, alongside new transport-to-orbit initiatives such as the European Launcher Challenge. A €3.6 billion budget was agreed for co-funded projects to attract private investment and support SMEs. Earth observation capabilities will be expanded with next-generation Copernicus satellites and new missions under FutureEO.
New centres and resolutions
ESA signed letters of intent with Poland to explore a new center for security and dual-use applications, and with Norway to evaluate an Arctic Space Center in Tromsø. Two resolutions were adopted: one on elevating Europe’s future through space, and another on resources for ESA’s mandatory activities for 2026-2030.
