By Tim Hepher and Dominique Vidalon
PARIS (Reuters) – The European Space Agency’s Director General, Josef Aschbacher, addressed concerns on Thursday about potential dwindling cooperation in Europe as Italy takes steps towards independent rocket operations and explores a possible partnership with Elon Musk’s Starlink for satellite services.
Italy’s Avio is set to assume control of the Vega C rocket under the auspices of ESA, moving the Italian-manufactured rocket away from Arianespace, Europe’s primary launch operator.
In the meantime, Rome is considering entering into supply agreements with Starlink, with Musk expressing readiness to offer Italy cutting-edge connectivity solutions.
Aschbacher emphasized the importance of maintaining European collaboration in the space sector amidst increasing nationalization efforts. He highlighted the growing strategic significance of space activities and the rising investments in the field, emphasizing the benefits for European countries participating in collective European initiatives rather than pursuing individual national agendas.
Recent reports suggesting a potential role for Starlink in Italy have emerged following the European Commission’s announcement of funding for the IRIS² constellation, aimed at enhancing secure communications for European governmental entities.
Emphasizing the necessity of a European approach in such endeavors, Aschbacher underlined the significance of European programs in addressing the evolving landscape of space activities.
The interactions between Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Elon Musk have attracted attention, with Musk being a prominent ally of incoming U.S. President Donald Trump.
As the European Union deliberates on responses to Musk’s public statements that have targeted elected officials, Aschbacher refrained from commenting on the potential impact of Musk’s remarks on ESA’s operations.
ESA’s collaboration with SpaceX for launching European payloads during a recent space access gap was noted, illustrating the agency’s efforts to ensure continuity in its space missions.
Looking ahead, ESA is focused on enhancing its independent access to space following recent setbacks. The upcoming launch schedule includes plans for the Ariane 6 rocket, with the aim of conducting multiple launches in 2025 to strengthen Europe’s presence in space.
Vega C’s successful return to space in December marked a significant milestone in Europe’s space endeavors and set the stage for future launches in collaboration with various partners, underscoring the agency’s commitment to advancing Europe’s capabilities in space exploration.
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