The Netherlands supports the development of a European ‘roadside assistance’ in space.
Repairing and refueling satellite missions. Faster technological innovation. Less space debris. Greater European autonomy in space. These are the promises of a ‘space roadside assistance’ that Europe is developing in the coming years. Dutch companies are contributing with knowledge and technological innovation. This is stated in a joint declaration signed today by NLSA Director Harm van de Wetering during the Berlin Airshow in Berlin.
Europe possesses its own launch rockets, satellite navigation (Galileo), and Earth observation (Copernicus). It is also working on IRIS2, a program for secure satellite communication. With so much infrastructure in space, a logical next step is the development of ISOS: In-Space Operations and Services.
ISOS is like a roadside assistance service in space, consisting of satellites that can ‘help’ other satellites. For example, with new parts and upgrades, extra fuel, and inspections. The service can also test new space technology and remove old or defective satellites from Earth orbit to prevent the accumulation of space debris.
According to the European Commission, ISOS gives the European space economy a boost and simultaneously makes our space infrastructure more resilient. In the coming years, European member states and partner countries will work on the technology for a pilot mission to be launched in 2030: ISOS for Infrastructure (ISOS4I).
Goal: sustainability
Germany, France, Spain, Portugal, and Luxembourg already committed to the ISOS4I mission in 2025. Today, Italy, Sweden, Greece, Norway, and the Netherlands signed a joint declaration stating that they will make a contribution. The Netherlands Space Agency represents the Netherlands in the ISOS Expert Group. This group will further develop the initiative and provide input to the European Commission.
“Dutch companies and knowledge institutions possess the specific knowledge and expertise needed to make this and future ISOS missions a success,” says NLSA Director Harm van de Wetering. “We are happy to contribute to this mission, because maintenance and repair of satellites in space can make space travel fundamentally safer and more sustainable. This aligns well with the priorities of our national Long-Term Space Agenda.“
More information
ISOS – Introducing the Future Space Ecosystem and our Strategic Capacity to Act in Space
