ESA discusses European exploration ambitions at IAC 2026
ESA Director General Josef Aschbacher and representatives from ESA Member States discussed Europe's exploration ambitions in low Earth orbit, around the Moon, and beyond during IAC 2026's third day. Aschbacher stressed the need for Europe to accelerate efforts to strengthen its autonomy in exploration and space transportation, noting that ESA Member States will meet in Rome on 15 December to consider next steps and consider costs, schedules, and possible scenarios. Topics included future astronaut transportation capabilities, European presence in low Earth orbit after the International Space Station, greater involvement in lunar exploration, and independent access to space. ESA also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the International Astronomical Union's Centre for the Protection of the Dark and Quiet Sky to address challenges from satellite constellations interfering with astronomical observations.
