This Space Café WebTalk will feature Dr Josef Aschbacher, Director General of the European Space Agency – ESA, in conversation with Dr Emma Gatti, Editor-in-Chief of SpaceWatch.Global.
European Space Ambitions – ESA Agenda 2025, updates and goals
For over four decades, the European Space Agency (ESA), alongside its member states and associated industries, has been instrumental in spearheading numerous triumphs in European space exploration. To keep pace with changing circumstances, ESA has deftly refined its rules, procedures, and governance structure. Its demonstrated flexibility in adapting as needed constitutes a valuable asset.
As outlined in its Agenda 2025, ESA faces impending challenges in maintaining and enhancing Europe’s presence in the space economy, both in the immediate future and the long-term. This involves collaboration with the European Union and space industry entities of varying scales. It entails inspiring and rallying educators, entrepreneurs, and the upcoming generation of space scientists and engineers, along with all other professionals essential to realizing ambitious space missions.
Furthermore, ESA is committed to developing programmes and missions that will instill pride among its member states. This includes launching new flagship missions in cooperation with European Union member states, as well as spearheading ESA-led missions to broaden our understanding of the cosmos and safeguard our planet and its orbit.
ESA Priorities for 2025
- Strengthen ESA–EU relations
- Boost green and digital commercialisation
- Develop space for safety and security
- Address critical programme challenges
- Complete the ESA transformation
Josef Aschbacher earned both his Master’s degree and PhD in natural sciences from the University of Innsbruck. His impressive international career in the space sector spans over 35 years and encompasses work at the European Space Agency (ESA), the European Commission, the Austrian Space Agency, the Asian Institute of Technology, and the University of Innsbruck. His journey started as a Research Scientist at the University’s Institute of Meteorology and Geophysics, a role he held from 1985 to 1989. He later joined the ESA as a Young Graduate Trainee and also worked at the European Commission Joint Research Centre. In 2001, Aschbacher returned to the ESA to serve as the Programme Coordinator for the Copernicus Programme. Five years later, in 2006, he was promoted to Head of the Copernicus Space Office. A decade later, in 2016, he ascended to the role of ESA Director of Earth Observation Programmes. Since March 2021, Aschbacher has been fulfilling his duties as the ESA’s Director General.
The audience will have the opportunity to engage in a question-and-answer session with Dr. Josef Aschbacher.
SpaceWatch.Global is a Europe-based digital magazine and portal for those interested in space and the far-reaching impact of the space sector.
This Space Café WebTalk will be conducted in English.
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