By: Nana Appiah Acquaye
The
18th European Space Conference opened today in Brussels, bringing together
policymakers, industry leaders, space agencies, research institutions and
international partners to discuss the future of Europe’s space sector.
The
two-day conference, taking place on Tuesday 27 and Wednesday 28 January 2026,
is focusing on key themes including European autonomy, resilience,
competitiveness, and security and defence in space. Discussions are expected to
address the strategic direction of Europe’s space policy at a time of
increasing geopolitical, technological and commercial pressures.
The
European Space Policy Institute (ESPI) is actively participating in the
conference, with its Director, H. Ludwig Moeller, and senior experts engaging
in high-level sessions, bilateral meetings and exchanges with stakeholders. On
the opening day, ESPI is contributing to discussions on industrial
competitiveness, sustainability, governance and defence-related space policy,
while also interacting with partners and members of the media.
ESPI’s
programme on the first day includes a high-level conversation between Heads of
National Space Agencies, a session examining the defining year ahead for
Europe’s space industry, and discussions on policy priorities for Europe in
space in 2026. Throughout the conference, ESPI representatives are available
for on-site meetings and media interviews.
