ESPI and Eurisy Formed Partnership for Space Policy
The two European space organizations have signed a memorandum of understanding to align policy analysis and satellite application initiatives.
Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in Space
The European Space Policy Institute and Eurisy have signed a non-legally binding memorandum of understanding to integrate their efforts in connecting space technology with social impact and governance. The agreement focuses on joint policy analysis and the practical application of satellite data.
Why it matters
By aligning their distinct focus areas, the groups aim to bridge the gap between high-level space policy and the practical societal benefits of orbital infrastructure. This collaboration serves to harmonize their strategic objectives as both entities work toward their respective 2040 vision frameworks.
The partnership leverages a combined network of 48 member organizations across two institutions. While the agreement is non-binding, it formalizes a new collaborative structure versus their prior independent operating models.
The players
European Space Policy Institute
A Vienna-based research organization with 23 members that provides policy analysis and strategic support for European space programs.
Eurisy
A Paris-based organization with 25 members dedicated to connecting space-based services to the needs of public and private professional end-users.
The details
The organizations will implement this collaboration through the exchange and secondment of staff between their Vienna and Paris offices. They will also co-organize workshops and seminars to merge their expertise in space governance and satellite utility. Both entities intend to utilize this partnership to harmonize their work with the long-term objectives outlined in their respective 2040 vision documents.
Timeline
1989: Eurisy was founded.
2003: The European Space Policy Institute (ESPI) was established.
October 1, 2026: The memorandum of understanding was signed at Space Debate Europe 2026.
The Tech Race
This agreement marks a departure from the organizations' previous parallel tracks, moving toward a unified approach to European space governance. It positions the combined network to more effectively compete for influence against centralized international space policy bodies.
The collaboration primarily affects industry stakeholders and policymakers involved in satellite applications rather than individual consumers. Real-world implementation will depend on the upcoming joint workshops and the integration of the organizations' 2040 vision documents.
The takeaway
This partnership signifies a structural consolidation of expertise within the European space sector as organizations prepare for the mid-century landscape. Observers should track upcoming joint policy publications and the alignment of the 2040 roadmaps for evidence of shared technical outcomes.
Further reading
For broader trends in orbital development and governance, see our latest analysis in Space.
Source note: This article includes information reported by ESPI.
