European Astropolitics

Abstract

The final chapter provides the reader with a comprehensive analysis of the European position in outer space geopolitics. First, the common European geopolitical priorities are set up. These are consequently reflected upon the space arena. Europe is presented as a specific actor with its unique strategy and capabilities. These are placed into the SWOT matrix to evaluate the strong and weak points of the common European space program. This analysis together with the previous study of the outer space geopolitical characteristics as well as the history of the European space program then allows us to establish recommendations for the future of the European space strategy. In the opinion presented in this book, the strategy should stand on four main pillars – cooperation, the establishment of independent strategic capabilities, the commercialization of the space programs in general, and participation in new frontier missions.