As we step into 2025, it’s incredible to see how the European space exploration landscape is evolving at an unprecedented pace. Attending the “Space for Inspiration” event at the end of last year provided us at Space Cooperative Europe (SCE) with invaluable insights and connections that have shaped our strategic direction for the year ahead.
Discussing Europe’s Sustained Presence in Low Earth Orbit at the Space for Inspiration Event 2024. Image: ESA
One of the dominant themes of the event was the post-ISS era and the opportunities it presents for Europe. With the International Space Station’s lifecycle approaching its conclusion, the emergence of private service providers and international alliances is creating a dynamic new market. This shift signals the dawn of a freer, more competitive European space sector, no longer constrained by limited ISS slots for research. European launchers like RFA, HyImpulse, Isar Aerospace, and The Exploration Company are poised to drive this market forward, unlocking unprecedented opportunities for innovation and growth.
Bridging the Gap Between Startups and Customers
A key challenge discussed at the event was how startups—often operating with lean teams and limited resources—can gain access to customers and scale effectively. During the panel discussion “Evolving LEO Dynamics: Analysing Supply and Demand for Commercial Facilities and Users in Low Earth Orbit,” we introduced the SCE Space Exploration and Transaction Execution Platform. Moderated by Stefan Lübcke (YURI Lux), the panel featured thought leaders such as Azita Djalilvand (Roche), Tristan Prejean (VAST), Micol Belluci (ASI), and Bo Byloos. Together, we explored ways to connect emerging businesses with the broader ecosystem, fostering collaborations that can accelerate growth.
Celebrating Innovation: BSGN Industry Accelerators
The event also showcased the work of the ESA’s BSGN Industry Accelerators during their acceleration phase. It was inspiring to see groundbreaking projects like Sophie’s Bionutrients BV, which will launch to the ISS in May 2025 as part of the AgriFood Accelerator, and Astrobiome Space Sàrl, preparing to test the resilience of their microbiomes in space with the YURI® Science Taxi in April 2025. These initiatives, alongside collaborations with INRAE and Interstellar Lab, highlight the tangible progress being made toward sustainable space applications. You can have a look at the presentation SCE2 CEO Markus Häuser gave here.
Looking Ahead: A Strong Start to 2025
The event underscored the importance of fostering partnerships and leveraging platforms to stimulate the market. The well-organized networking sessions provided a fertile ground for meaningful conversations and potential collaborations. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Mark Serres and the Luxembourg Space Agency for hosting such an impactful event and to ESA’s BSGN for the invitation.
At SCE, we are entering 2025 with renewed purpose, inspired by the vibrant discussions and innovative ideas shared at “Space for Inspiration.” Our focus remains on building bridges between startups, scale-ups, and investors, creating a robust ecosystem that will drive the next wave of space exploration and commercialisation.
Together, we are shaping the future of space.
