Adoption of the federal government’s new Space Strategy

The federal cabinet adopted the new federal government’s Space Strategy (PDF, 5 MB) today. The new Space Strategy takes account of the growing significance of space exploration and use for our society focussing on current and future challenges. The focus is especially on promoting space initiatives of the private sector, better known as New Space, the use of space-based applications to mitigate climate change, and responsible and sustainable action in connection with space flight. The previous Space Strategy was adopted in 2010.

Federal Government Coordinator of German Aerospace Policy Dr. Anna Christmann, said: "For many people, the outer space is literally very far away, although it is essential for our safety, the protection of our planet and our daily lives. The challenges we are facing in the 21st century require technologies of the 21st century. The federal government’s new Space Strategy takes account of this importance of space flight for Germany and Europe.

"In Germany, we have strong established players, excellent SMEs and upcoming innovative startups in the space sector. In view of the high dynamism worldwide, however, we are also facing new tasks which we need to master to remain a strong and innovative centre for space technology. We are building on European competition for launchers, a Space Innovation Hub and international partnerships. We want to make even better use of the potential for the mitigation of climate change and prevent space debris. The Space Strategy also aims to bring the fascinating world of outer space closer to the people by strengthening the dialogue with society and fostering enthusiasm among young people."

The Strategy identifies nine fields of action for the federal government. The goals and measures as well as short-term and medium-term key projects will be implemented following today’s cabinet decision.

These are the nine fields of action of the federal government’s new Space Strategy:

1. European and international cooperation
2. Space flight as a growth market – hightech and New Space
3. Climate change, resources and environmental protection
4. Digitisation, data and downstream
5. Security, strategic ability to act and global stability
6. Sustainable use of outer space
7. Space research
8. International exploration of outer space
9. Space flight in dialogue and attracting talents.

A broad range of stakeholders was involved in drawing up the new Space Strategy to cover the interests of the whole space community. This includes the competent ministries, experts from research, and representatives of industry and civil society.