News item | 21-02-2025 | 14:30
Space technology and satellite data are increasingly indispensable for safety, (vital) infrastructure, science and sustainability. In the long-term space agenda (LTR) there are 6 missions to improve the Dutch position in this sector. The Council of Ministers agreed with the proposal from Minister Beljaarts of Economic Affairs to endorse the vision and ambitions in the LTR. This spring, the cabinet will also make a decision on whether or not a possible financial boost.
The House of Representatives was informed about this cabinet reaction by Minister Beljaarts also on behalf of the Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Defense, Infrastructure and Water Management, and Education, Culture and Science.
Minister Beljaarts: “The Netherlands is in a strong position to take advantage of this growth market. Thanks to a solid base with strong companies, reputable knowledge institutions and also the presence of the Technical Headquarters of ESA: ESTEC in Noordwijk. The technologies in this sector make a proven contribution to our economy, safety and infrastructure and are in line with the national technology strategy. At the same time, there is unfortunately a limited financial scope that requires choices. The cabinet will make it to be able to obtain a number of important milestones from the agenda. ”
Due to safety and economy, other countries are investing accelerated
Currently, Dutch public space investments in European and national purposes are € 522 million to 2025. Space technology produces more than 10,000 jobs in the Netherlands, is the source of innovations in other sectors and reduces strategic dependencies.
Other countries inside and outside Europe have accelerated investment in space travel, which means that the Dutch position is under pressure. The Netherlands is currently not meeting the triennial investment standards (mandatory and optional) of the European Space Agency (ESA) And must also take national steps for that. This is possible through a joining of forces of ministries, companies and science. To take a step towards the ESA standard, an increase of at least € 60 million a year is required. The cabinet will – regardless of budgetary decision -making on this – make a maximum of effort to achieve the objectives from the LTR within the budgetary frameworks.
Missions in the long-term space agenda
- Safety, military capacity in space and (co) develop satellite communication, navigation and earth observation;
- Climate, a worldwide leader for measuring emissions and use satellite data for water and agriculture;
- science, develop high-quality instruments for scientific breakthroughs, and ensure that this knowledge also goes to the market for non-spacious technology;
- Data, governments and service providers make better use of satellite data;
- Economic growth, tripling sector turnover and better use NL Space Campus;
- Working in a European and international connection on additional agreements for a safe, responsible and sustainable use of the space.