Abstract
The European Union is trying to play a significant role in space exploration. However, it must contend with powerful competitors, such as the USA, Russia, and China. EU-led space programmes such as the ‚Galileo’ satellite navigation system and the ‚Ariane’ launch vehicles are proof of the high aspirations of Europeans. However, the costs generated by these programmes and the modest achievements they bring indicate that the EU does not have a dominant position in this area. In recent years, the Russian invasion of Ukraine has had a significant impact on the EU’s space policy, with space exploration linked to security and defence policy. It has become an important part of the strategic autonomy built by the EU. European countries have also decided to build their own missile defence system — ESSI.