ESA at IAC 2026 – Day 3
ESA’s third day at IAC 2026 put the future of European exploration and the decisions ahead at centre stage. Director General Josef Aschbacher joined ESA Member State representatives to discuss Europe’s ambitions in low Earth orbit, around the Moon, and beyond. The day also saw ESA Director of Space Transportation Géraldine Naja receive the 2026 WIA-Europe Outstanding Achievement Award for her contribution to the European space sector.
A high-level Global Networking Forum, “Europe’s exploration ambition,” brought together Aschbacher; Mario Cospito, Special Commissioner of the Italian Space Agency (ASI); François Jacq, Chairman and CEO of CNES; Tanja Permozer, Head of the Slovenian Space Office; Juan Carlos Cortés, Director of the Spanish Space Agency (AEE) and Chair of the ESA Council; Tania Celani, Deputy Director of the UK Space Agency; and René Kleeßen from the German Space Agency at DLR. The discussion explored how Europe can strengthen its role in exploration while remaining a strong and reliable international partner. A particular focus was the decisions expected at ESA’s Intermediate Ministerial Meeting in Rome on 15 December and the longer-term preparations leading to the next ESA Council at Ministerial Level in 2028.
During the panel, Aschbacher underlined the need for Europe to accelerate efforts to strengthen its autonomy of action in exploration and space transportation, noting that this is why Member States would meet already in December to consider next steps. He explained that ESA is currently assessing costs, schedules, and a range of possible scenarios that could be presented to ministers. He also stressed that greater European autonomy is not about isolation, but about ensuring Europe can contribute more strongly and effectively to international partnerships.
Participants discussed what increased European autonomy could mean in practice, including future astronaut transportation capabilities, a sustained European presence in low Earth orbit after the end of exploitation of the International Space Station, greater involvement in lunar exploration, and continued independent access to space. The debate also highlighted the importance of fostering commercial opportunities, mobilising private investment, and ensuring exploration delivers tangible benefits for society and the broader economy.
Looking ahead to the Ministerial Meeting, Aschbacher expressed hope that Europe would raise its level of ambition in both human and robotic exploration. He said, “This moment could be historic.” A replay of the discussion will soon be available.
The third day of IAC also included a segment on protecting the dark and quiet sky, with IAU CPS Director Piero Benvenuti and ESA Director of Operations Rolf Densing.