Austria increases ESA contribution: Space research as a future project!

Austria increases ESA contribution: Space research as a future project!

On May 22, 2025, Austria announced that it will increase his financial contribution to the European Space Organization (ESA) in the next three years. Infrastructure Minister Peter Hanke (SPÖ) emphasizes the essential importance of space research for Austria. The increase in the contribution from 260 million euros is up to 320 million euros is within the 2035 industrial strategy, with the aim of strengthening the area of ​​space research. According to Hanke, the success of the Austrian space sector has been impressive since joining ESA in 1985.

The current ESA's current Ministerial Council Conference is scheduled for November in Bremen, Germany. This meeting also advises on how the Member States, including Austria, can use their budget contribution of a total of 23 billion euros. For Austria, this results in a claim of over 470 million euros. The share of Austria is currently 2.12 % of the gross national product.

expansion of space research and the corporate landscape

Austria positions itself strongly in space technologies and has a variety of companies and research institutions that have built up decisive skills in the industry. Dieter Grebner, President of Austria, demands more efforts in space research, while Karin Tausz, Managing Director of the FFG, indicates the need for a clear growth path for the Austrian Space Strategy 2030. According to the analysis of the Economica Institute, the Austrian space economy generates gross value added of around 198 million euros and generates sales annually.

The industry comprises around 150 companies and employs around 1,300 people. It is noteworthy that 75 % of sales flow directly into research and development, which underlines the commitment in these areas. In addition, an export relationship of 1 to 4 in ESA investments is recorded, which means high proceeds for domestic companies. Austria is well positioned in satellite components, space research and quantum communication.

largest international events in Austria

As part of the celebrations for the 50th anniversary of the ESA, Vienna became the "Space City" in the summer of 2025. From June 24th to 26th the space festival "Space in the City" will take place, which offers numerous interactive experiences and indicates the benefits of space data for a sustainable life. Another highlight is the "Living Planet Symposium", which takes place in Vienna from June 23 to 27 and deals with the topics "from the observation of climate protection and sustainability for the earth" organized by the ESA.

Austria has been a full member of the ESA since 1987 and has a pronounced commitment in the areas of space science and technology. The successful implementation of the national space program, Austrian Space Applications Programs (ASAP), has supported over 800 projects and reflects the efforts to continue to position the country as an important player in the global space sector.

The upcoming anniversary is also summarized as part of "Graz in Space", planned for September 4th to 5th, and at the same time marks another significant milestone for Austrian space research.

For further information on the developments of Austrian space research, see also [Kleine Zeitung] (https://www.kleinezeitung.at/service/newsticker/chronik/19714126/50-jahre-esa-erhung-des-austro contribution),) [OTS] (https://www.ots.at/presseaus-sung/ots_20250522_OTS0015/INNOVAGEMISMISMISMISMIST- HANCHE-WELAUMFURGENTICHT-ALS-FREAGRACHET-FUER-LAND-OESTERREIT) and and ESA.