Upcoming Session: LEO Automated Platforms for Research and Production in Space

The European Space Agency (ESA) is inviting industry stakeholders to provide input on the future of automated platforms in Low Earth Orbit (LEO). As the International Space Station (ISS) nears the end of its operational lifetime, ESA is exploring new solutions to ensure continued access to space for scientific research, production, and technology demonstration.

With various LEO platforms expected to emerge by the end of this decade—including both fully automated and human-tended platforms—ESA is taking a proactive approach. The aim is to assess industry-driven, commercially motivated, and privately funded initiatives that will shape the next generation of space-based research and production capabilities.

Why This Matters

The shift to new orbital infrastructure represents a transformative opportunity for multiple sectors. ESA’s interest in automated LEO platforms is driven by three key objectives:

• Enhancing European Autonomy: Ensuring independent access to LEO research and production services.
• Expanding Cost-Efficient Services: Leveraging commercial platforms for high-frequency up and download capabilities.
• Stimulating New Markets: Driving innovation in biotech, health, new materials, in-space manufacturing, and sustainable food production.

Industry Briefing: 24 March 2025

To provide further insight into the Request for Information (RFI), ESA will host an online industry briefing session on 24 March 2025, from 10:00 to 11:30 CET. This session will serve as a platform for interested parties to:

• Gain a clear understanding of ESA’s objectives and expectations for automated LEO platforms.
• Ask questions in an anonymised format, ensuring open and productive discussion.
• Understand how to participate in the RFI process and contribute to the future of space-based research and production.

To confirm your participation and receive the meeting link, please register via ESA Interacts on esa-star Publication before 24 March 2025 at 09:00 CET.

Who Should Respond?

This RFI is addressed to economic operators in ESA Member States participating in the European Exploration Envelope Programme (E3P). Companies developing autonomous LEO platforms and end-to-end services for research, production, and technology demonstration are strongly encouraged to participate.

Submission Details

• RFI Submission Deadline: 11 April 2025, 13:00 CET.
• Submission Format: Electronic format via esa-star Publication.
• Page Limit: Responses should not exceed 40 pages.
• Language: English.
• ESA Feedback to Respondents: Expected by end of May 2025.

Shaping the Future of LEO Platforms

This is an opportunity for industry leaders to help define the post-ISS era by contributing to ESA’s planning for LEO infrastructure. By responding to this RFI, companies will gain early insights into ESA’s strategic direction and potential future partnership opportunities.

For full details on the Request for Information, access the RFI on esa-star Publication.