EU to Fund Next Phase of European Resilience from Space Satellite Program
The European Commission is set to seek funding for the next phase of the European Resilience from Space (ERS) satellite program in its upcoming multiannual financial framework starting in 2028. This follows the approval of the ERS program by ESA member states, with the first phase expected to cost around one billion euros ($1.15 billion). However, some ESA members have raised concerns about the rush to develop ERS, while others, like Andrius Kubilius, emphasize the need for speed due to its potential role in the war in Ukraine.
ERS, a joint effort between the European Space Agency (ESA) and the European Commission, aims to provide high spatial and temporal resolution imagery through a constellation of radar and optical imaging satellites. These satellites will offer revisit times of about 30 minutes, significantly improving Europe's Earth observation capabilities. The program builds on the successful cooperation between ESA and the European Commission in projects like Galileo and Copernicus.
Despite the endorsement of the ERS concept by Lionel Suchet of CNES, some EU countries, including Germany and France, have expressed concerns. These primarily revolve around data privacy, security, and the potential militarization of the satellite imagery. ESA and the European Commission are working closely to address these concerns and finalize the details of the ERS implementation.
With the ERS program approved and funding on the horizon, the European Commission and ESA are poised to strengthen Europe's resilience and independence in space. The next steps involve addressing member states' concerns, finalizing the program's details, and securing the necessary funding. The successful implementation of ERS could significantly enhance Europe's ability to respond to crises and monitor its territories.
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