Europe’s Space Ambitions Face Launch Challenges

Experts Urge Investment in Reusable Launchers to Compete Globally

Europe must revitalize its space sector by reshaping strategies and investments, according to specialists. A recent conference highlighted the critical need for accessible, cost-effective launch capabilities to stay competitive in the rapidly evolving global space race.

The Launch Dilemma

The most crucial element is access to space launchers, stated Francesco Topputo, a space systems professor at Politecnico di Milano. While the technology is available, he emphasized the importance of developing reusable launchers to drive down mission costs.

“These could lower the cost of space missions and “trigger a completely different market in in Europe,”

—Francesco Topputo, Professor

In 2024, the United States conducted 146 launches, with a significant portion managed by SpaceX, while China executed over 60 launches. Europe, however, only managed a mere three.