Space Foundations
As long-term scientific research is fundamental to the survival and progress of our own society, the EU, the European Space Agency and their member countries are working to develop space-based science. These activities covering space science, exploration, technology, the reduction of the vulnerability of space assets, and access to space are all known under the term Space Foundations.
Europe's space science programme - targeting the whole Universe from the Solar System to the farthest reaches of space - greatly contributes to improving our understanding of Nature and our place in it.
At the same time, technology derived from space activities feeds into innovative terrestrial applications and directly contributes to industrial competitiveness, economic growth and employment. With no less than three environmental science satellites due for launch in 2009, the European Space Agency (ESA) has lined up an outstanding programme of research into the Earth and all its systems. Important contributions are also being made to the preparation of future space projects through the science and technology projects of the space work programme initiated under the European Commission's Seventh Framework Programme for Research and Development (FP7).
Space exploration keeps providing new knowledge, stimulating innovation and inspiring young people. European involvement with the International Space Station (ISS), in particular the Columbus laboratory module and the Automated Transfer Vehicle, together with the presence of European crews on ISS, secure a continuing visible European presence in space.
Europe is also playing a key role in the next phase of the robotic and manned space exploration of the Solar System, with the surface and sub-surface of planet Mars as the next target. This is a way of engaging in some of the highest technological challenges of today and tomorrow, ensuring Europe of an ever increasing innovation and know-how.
Maintaining and developing independent European access to space is a key strategic goal of the European Space Policy. Independent and cost-effective access to space requires Europe to possess launch capability and infrastructure. This demands a long-term political commitment to support a European launcher programme.
