We operate in the European space science landscape conducting studies and supporting scientific initiatives.
Since 1974, we have provided support and expert advice to European space agencies and decision makers in the space domain. Through independent contract work, we provide studies and analyses to the European Space Agency, EU national space agencies, and other operators in the European space sciences landscape. We host scientific platforms such as the European Space Sciences Committee (ESSC), the European Astrobiology Institute (EAI), and provide support for financial, legal, administrative, and communication matters, as well as stakeholder engagement and policy recommendations.
As we facilitate scientific collaborations and activities, we address pressing challenges in space science and space policy in Europe, and enable innovative solutions. We also contribute to an inclusive space science community with equal opportunities across Europe. Moreover, we strive to ensure that the European space science community can continue to thrive and promote international cooperation in the field.
We provide expertise in...
ESF’s Expertise
Find out more about our different areas of expertise!
'We specialise in conducting studies for space agencies to address scientific challenges'
Mari Kolehmainen — Space Cluster Lead
Discover our projects and scientific structures in Space Science
We host the European Astrobiology Institute,
securing a leading role for the European Research Area in the field.
#ScientificStructures
We guide policies for Europe’s Advisor on Space Science and Policy (ESSC),
establishing an independent voice for European space scientists.
#ScientificStructures
We host and administer the Committee on Radio Astronomy Frequencies (CRAF),
keeping frequency bands used by radio astronomers in Europe free from inference.
#ScientificStructures
We support policies, communication and administration for the European Facility for Airborne Research (EUFAR),
allowing the platform to focus on advancing airborne research capabilities and fostering international cooperation.
#ScientificStructures
We coordinate the ASTRAIOS project on analysing the skills, training, research, and innovation opportunities in space, and lead the analysis focused on future trends and challenges of the European space sector.
We help bring agencies and scientific communities’ insights into the project through our extensive network amongst space agencies and space scientists.
#EUFundedProjects
We provide communication and stakeholder engagement for MULTIMINER,
facilitating advancements in mineral exploration and mine site monitoring.
#EUFundedProjects
European Space Sciences Committee (ESSC)
Europe’s advisor on space science and policy
European Astrobiology Institute (EAI)
A virtual institute for Astrobiology in Europe
NGI Sargasso
Unique collaborative ecosystem and programme for promoting the transatlantic cooperation in NGI technologies
ASTRAIOS
Analysis of Skills, Training, Research, And Innovation Opportunities in Space
MultiMiner
Multi-source and Multi-scale Earth observation and Novel Machine Learning Methods for Mineral Exploration and Mine Site Monitoring
Check our related news
Committee on Radio Astronomy Frequencies (CRAF) admitted to CISPR seeking to advance standards for satellite radio-noise
The Committee on Radio Astronomy Frequencies has been admitted as an I-member of the International Special Committee on Radio Interference.
BEACON 2025: A Landmark Gathering for Astrobiology in Europe
ESF supports successful second edition of the Biennial European Astrobiology Conference
Get in touch!
We are ready to answer any questions, discuss potential collaborations, and schedule a meeting. Feel free to give us a call or drop us an email.
Mari Kolehmainen
Space Cluster Lead
