French President Macron Calls for Independent European Crewed Space Flight Capability
Macron urges Europe to develop its own human spaceflight program within a decade to strengthen the continent's space sector.
Quick Look
- French President Emmanuel Macron has urged Europe to develop an independent crewed space flight capability within ten years.
- The call, made at a Paris space summit, aligns with European Space Agency chief Josef Aschbacher's push for increased resources and autonomy.
AI-generated summary
Why It Matters
European leaders are seeking to bolster the continent's space sector amid rapid global technological advancements. The ESA chief has emphasized the need for more resources to maintain European influence.
French President Emmanuel Macron on Thursday called on Europe to develop its own crewed space flight capability within a decade as part of a broader push to strengthen the continent’s space sector.
Macron made the call during an international space summit held in Paris this week, which was shown the cold shoulder by several US companies including SpaceX and Blue Origin.
“We want Europe to assert its ambition in crewed space flight,” he said. “Our European space programme remains fragile and we must step up our efforts.”
His call follows that of European Space Agency (ESA) chief Josef Aschbacher who late on Wednesday appealed to ministers and dignitaries in a closed-door meeting for more resources to develop an independent European space sector.
“Will we be passengers or pilots?” Aschbacher asked, in a copy of his speech provided to Agence France-Presse.
Aschbacher pointed to the rapid development in space technology by countries around the world from satellite development to the exploration of the Moon and Mars.
Open Questions
- How will the proposed space program be funded?
- Which European nations will lead the initiative?
