Europe turns to SpaceX amid tensions with Russia
The Ariane 6 rocket is also delayed
The European Space Agency (ESA) has begun preliminary technical dialogue with Elon Musk’s SpaceX, which may lead to temporary use of SpaceX rockets by Europe. The private US competitor to Europe’s Arianespace is emerging as a key player due to the delay in the Ariane 6 rocket schedule, but also due to the suspension of use of the Russian Soyuz by Western countries while the conflict in Ukraine rages.
I would say that there are two and a half options that we are discussing. One is clear and it is SpaceX. The other is probably Japan, which is awaiting the maiden flight of its next-generation rocket. Another option could be India. SpaceX is the most operational of these right now and is definitely one of the backup launches we’re looking at. – Josef Aschbacher, ESA Director General
Of course, we have to make sure that they are the right ones. It’s not like taking a bus. We are looking into technical compatibility, but have not yet requested a commercial offer. We just want to make sure we have the option to make the decision to request a specific trade offer.
SpaceX did not comment on the report.
The American company has attracted many customers who suddenly found themselves cut off from the space sector by the war in Ukraine, after Russia decided not to serve countries opposed to the war.
Europe has until now relied on Italy’s Vega to launch small payloads, Russia’s Soyuz for medium payloads and Ariane 5 for large payloads. The new Ariane 6, which will have two versions to replace the Ariane 5 and Soyuz, has been delayed until next year, with a clearer timetable expected in October, after tests.
Aschbacher admitted that the conflict in Ukraine has shown that the strategic cooperation between Europe and Russia that has lasted for decades is no longer working.
It was a wake-up call that we were too dependent on Russia. And this should make those who make the decisions realize that we must essentially strengthen European capabilities and independence.
