From fragmented space to the Space University Institute

ABSTRACT Starting from the origin of European space policy and its institutions since WW2, this paper discusses the inconsistency of current institutional settings between the European Space Agency (ESA) and EU space policy. It points out the historical cause of this problematic situation and elaborates how it undermines potential synergies that were envisaged initially. Based on its analysis, it is proposed to open ESA up internationally, embodied in re-naming ESA to the Space University Institute (SUI), if one wants to take a parallel development to the European University Institute (EUI), or even entertaining the name International Space Agency. It would build on ESA strength in fostering research, training, and innovation while leaving the utilitarian side of downstream usage of space application to the EU. This opening up of ESA to a wider international constituency could create partnerships as they already exist within ESA with Canadafor example, and with which ESA has substantial experience.