CSIL contributed to a European Commission study examining the position and prospects of the EU space economy within a rapidly evolving global market. Working with consortium leader SpaceTech Partners, CSIL led the socio-economic assessment and contributed to recommendations for European space, research and innovation policy.
Technological advances, new commercial actors and changing investment models are transforming the global space sector. The study was commissioned to develop an integrated view of the European space economy, identify its strengths and weaknesses, and explore its wider economic spillovers.
The analysis covered satellite communications, Earth observation, navigation, launchers, the ground segment, and space situational awareness and space traffic management. Its findings were intended to support decisions associated with the 2021–2027 Multiannual Financial Framework and the development of EU space, research, and innovation policies.
The study gathered evidence on the structure and evolution of the European and global space economies, examining market trends, technological developments and Europe’s competitive position. Stakeholders were consulted to provide perspectives on emerging opportunities, investment needs and barriers affecting the sector.
CSIL led the analysis of the socio-economic costs and benefits associated with the EU space sector and its spillovers into the wider economy. It also contributed to interpreting the evidence and developing conclusions and policy recommendations.
CSIL has been awarded this study as part of the work carried out within the Framework Contract on Ecosystem support for Copernicus and Space Policy, in partnership with SpaceTech Partners.
The study adopted a mixed-method approach combining literature and market review, stakeholder consultation, statistical and econometric analysis, and socio-economic assessment. Quantitative and qualitative evidence were integrated to examine sectoral performance, economic impacts and the conditions influencing Europe’s future competitiveness.
The study provided the European Commission with an aggregated assessment of the EU space economy in its global context. It identified key trends, strengths, weaknesses and development prospects across the principal space subsectors, while assessing their contribution to the wider economy. The results informed conclusions and recommendations concerning EU space policy, industrial support and future research and innovation needs.