The European Space Agency has initiated two parallel studies to explore the development of a European orbital station for the post-ISS era. Contracts for these nine-month projects were awarded to consortia led by Airbus Defence and Space and OHB.
Engineers will analyze potential architectures, life support systems, logistics, and necessary industrial capabilities. The proposed station is intended to support human spaceflight, scientific research, and technology testing in low Earth orbit.
ESA has not yet committed to building the station. The project is one of several options for maintaining a European presence in orbit, alongside potential partnerships with commercial operators. Findings will guide future decisions by member states.
Europe leverages its experience from the ISS program, including the Columbus laboratory and the European Service Module for the Orion spacecraft. Local companies are currently developing technologies in robotics, life support, and orbital maintenance.
