Space Insights Archive

Insights

Curated news, analysis and intelligence from the European space sector.

The 2026 EU Space Funding Landscape: Navigating Horizon Europe & IRIS²

A comprehensive analysis of the current funding landscape for European space ventures. We map out every open call, co-funding instrument and blended finance mechanism available to SMEs and research organisations across Horizon Europe, CASSINI and the new IRIS² programme.

April 12, 2026

Technology and Innovation

The Orbital Docking Paradox: Standardisation vs. Sovereignty

Europe faces a critical decision on orbital docking standards as commercial servicing missions accelerate. We analyse the tension between interoperability and strategic autonomy.

April 11, 20266 min read

Policy and Regulation

EU Space Law Reform: What the New Framework Means for Industry

The European Commission has tabled a landmark proposal to harmonise space regulation across all 27 member states. We break down the key provisions and their implications for operators.

April 10, 20267 min read

Nordic Space Ecosystem

Andøya Spaceport: Norway's Polar Orbit Gateway Takes Shape

Construction milestones at Andøya signal a new era for Nordic launch capability. We assess the strategic implications for polar orbit access.

April 9, 20265 min read

Market and Industry

ESA Selects Three Primes for Moonlight Communications Network

Industrial consortia finalised for the lunar communication and navigation services framework agreement, opening a new chapter in cislunar infrastructure.

April 8, 20264 min read

Funding and Opportunities

EIC Fund Announces €100M Allocation for Space Deep-Tech SMEs

Fresh allocation of blended finance targeting deep-tech startups working on sovereign Earth Observation data and quantum-secure satellite communications.

April 7, 20264 min read

Technology and Innovation

Nuclear Thermal Propulsion: ESA's Quiet Breakthrough

Successful ground testing at Lampoldshausen confirms a new high-thrust engine design that could halve transit times to Mars. Europe is closer to deep-space capability than most realise.

April 6, 20266 min read