Descripción del proyecto
The maturation of space robotics has paved the way for new capabilities for in-space servicing, assembly and manufacturing (ISAM). These capabilities offer significant business opportunities and promise to increase the efficiency and resilience of the orbital infrastructure. It will open a completely new market with the potential to shape a new ecosystem in space. In order to seize this opportunity and prevent US companies from monopolizing the market, a European ISAM capacity must be built up.
The project has two distinct goals: First, to undertake a market analysis of in-space services, in-space assembly and manufacturing, and related domains, and develop two reference scenarios that will be further analysed and used to define an end-to-end demonstration scenario. Second, to use the demonstration scenario to mature the building blocks and relevant robotic elements that have been started to be developed in Europe during the last years and to establish an open-source process for the continuing maturation of these building blocks. The establishment of a European ISMA capacity and defining the future space ecosystem will have a significant impact on Europe. By developing and implementing these new capabilities, Europe can maintain its competitiveness on the global stage, create new jobs, and drive economic growth through increased investment in the space industry. Furthermore, the development of a sustainable space ecosystem will have a positive impact on the environment, reducing the amount of waste and pollution in space and contributing to a more sustainable and cleaner space environment. Overall, the project's impact on Europe is multifaceted and far-reaching, including economic growth, job creation, technological innovation, and environmental sustainability. By creating a European ISAM capacity and defining the future space ecosystem, Europe can position itself as a leader in the global space industry and pave the way for a more sustainable and prosperous future.