The European Space Agency (ESA), through its Future Launchers Preparatory Programme (FLPP), conducts a strategic assessment to identify and address capability gaps in Europe’s space transportation sector, with the goal of ensuring long-term competitiveness and autonomy in launch systems.

Methodology: System Studies and Technology Road mapping. ESA evaluates future launch system concepts and identifies critical technologies needed to support them

Industry and Partner Engagement: Works closely with European industry, research institutions, and national space agencies to align priorities and co-develop solutions, fostering a collaborative innovation ecosystem

Capability Gap Identification: Analyses global trends, mission requirements, and industrial capabilities to identify strategic gaps in Europe’s launch capabilities

Prerequisites:

• Capabilities to conduct the assessment and analyse the results

• Identify and build relationships with relevant ministries, local companies, and other stakeholders to gather comprehensive data on existing launch usage in the nation

Cost:

• Ballpark: USD 10k–50k

• Includes: literature review, stakeholder consultations, expert advisory, report drafting and validation

Note: A complete study would range from USD 20k-70k and include multiple activities such as determining the relevance of the domain and a capability maturity assessment) 

Timeframe:

• Overall: 6–12 mo

• Phase: scoping (1–2 mo), consultation (2–4 mo), drafting (2–4 mo), validation (1–2 mo)

Pros:

• Informed Investment Decisions – Enables informed decision-making by identifying areas that require investment and improvement.

• Goal Setting – Facilitates strategic planning by setting clear goals and priorities.

Considerations:

• Time and Expertise Demands – Requires significant time and specialized expertise to conduct thorough assessments, adding strain to institutional resources.