The space sector in Europe today is facing an unprecedented level of challenges and opportunities. A rapidly evolving ecosystem; soaring global competition from within and outside the industry; major technological shifts; and now rising tensions caused by the situation in Ukraine. New commercial and geopolitical realities are challenging policymakers and industry to adapt their approach to space in order to protect European values and maintain its position as a global space leader. At this critical time, the European Space Forum 2022 will provide an opportunity for a deep dive into these key themes and more. It will examine the innovative programmes, initiatives and policies that are being put forward, and the extent to which these are sufficient to enable Europe to embrace the new era of space that is emerging.

The inaugural edition of the European Space Forum in 2021 was held virtually, and brought together more than 700 key stakeholders and thought leaders from across the space and satellite sectors. This year, the event is switching to a hybrid format, and we are looking forward to welcoming speakers and delegates to Brussels for 2 full days of face-to-face debate. The ethos of the event in this in-person format remains unchanged. All sessions are designed to be discussion-based and highly interactive. By encouraging speakers and audience members to speak freely, challenge each other and pool ideas, our aim is to make a real and tangible contribution to policy thinking in this area as we move towards the common goal of securing Europe’s position as a major player in this exciting new era of space ;