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EU new space policy encourages companies to use space data

Xinhua, October 28, 2016 Adjust font size:

European companies are encouraged to use more space data generated by the Europe Union (EU)'s satellite network to reinforce Europe's competitiveness in space, said in a joint declaration signed by the EU and the European Space Agency.

The European Commission appeals more public and private sectors to seize the benefits offered by space,a statement released on Wednesday said.

Since the space data have already been applied to navigation systems and predicting natural disasters, the declaration suggested the companies to exploit the potential of the EU-funded space programs Copernicus, EGNOS and Galileo in an innovative way.

Elzbieta Bienkowska, European Commissioner for Internal Market, said space "needs more entrepreneurs and more private investment if it is to stay ahead of the curve."

"The European Union is a key player in space policy," said Maros Sefcovic, the bloc's Vice-President.

The EU has 18 satellites in orbit now and 30 planned over the next 10 to 15 years. Europe's space economy is estimated at 46-54 billion euros in 2014, taking up 21 percent of the global space sector, based on PwC statistics.

"We want to build on that and use this leadership role strategically to create jobs and growth and deliver on our common policy priorities," said Sefcovic.

Facing tougher global competition, Europe tries to find a new way to stimulate the EU economy and strengthen its global role, the declaration said, adding that Europe' competitiveness in space should be seen as "an asset for its security and defence". Endit