Belgium’s choice to invest in space has proven judicious, bringing significant rewards, lauds Josef Aschbacher, ESA Director, during King Philippe’s visit to the European Space Agency’s operational centre at Redu.
"Belgium wields significant influence among the ESA’s 22 members," confirms Aschbacher. "In relation to its population and GDP, it’s one of the agency’s main contributors."
He underscores that space is increasingly crucial for economic sectors, from agriculture and civil protection, to natural disaster management and security. “Thanks to its shrewd investments, Belgium has put itself in a strong position to reap space’s benefits, particularly for its businesses”, extols ESA’s Director.
King Philippe has always openly expressed his enthusiasm for matters related to space. Last year, alongside Prince Gabriel, the monarch visited Guyana to witness the Juice probe’s launch. During his Redu visit, he got to inspect the construction site of a “cyber safe” set to be operational by mid-2025, a testament to ESA’s emphasis on the Luxembourger site, which now employs 120 people.
"Belgium holds diplomatic clout in space," posits State Secretary for Science Policy, Thomas Dermine (PS). Is this sufficient for Raphaël Liégeois to soon become Belgium’s third man in space, following Dirk Frimout and Frank De Winne? Mr Aschbacher elusively promises an answer on May 22.
