Strategy

Economic diversification is the primary objective of the commercial space sector in Luxembourg. The sustainability of space-related economic activities is directly linked to the the sector’s continued skills development. The aim will therefore be to develop Luxembourg’s preferred market segments, but also to position the country on new segments offering attractive commercial prospects.

Spacetech today makes it possible to offer answers, or serious contributions, to societal and environmental issues. Making activities on Earth sustainable will require building bridges between the space sector and the terrestrial sector, and strengthening national competences between sectors. There will be a more specific focus on sectors of interest to Luxembourg, to prompt a multiplier effect and simultaneously contribute to the economic sustainability of Luxembourg’s space sector. The development of expertise will also concentrate on the segments likely to contribute to some of the sustainable development goals, with a special focus on the segments of relevance to development cooperation and Luxembourg’s humanitarian action.

Space infrastructure has commercial, security, environmental, and societal implications. However, the growing use of Earth orbits will present operational risks and more debris in space. It is therefore urgent and vital to promote responsible long-term use of space. Luxembourg’s commitment will take effect at both national and international levels, and through the development of national competences in space traffic management and services in orbit.

The SpaceResources.lu Initiative aims to promote peaceful exploration and a sustainable development approach to the use of space resources.The R&D projects of businesses and public research centres in this field, especially ESRIC, will have to tackle the issues of sustainability, circularity and resource management, while ensuring the economic viability of the activities being developed. Luxembourg will continue its international engagement, especially at the UN, in order to create a respectful international framework and develop these new space activities for the benefit of humankind as a whole. Technological developments in space may also make certain activities on Earth more sustainable, especially in the mining industry.