Space
In 2023, the European space manufacturing industry has experienced significant employment growth while it underwent a relative decrease of revenue levels. Nevertheless, the sector continues to uphold its leading position in the global space industry.
The European space manufacturing industry is a strategic sector, essential for the implementation of many public policies, and supporting all economic sectors. It is embedded in the wider European aerospace and defence industrial complex.
The first business area of the space manufacturing sector lies in the design, development, and manufacturing of satellites for operational applications, such as telecommunications systems, earth observation systems and position/ navigation/timing (PNT) systems, as well as supporting scientific activities and ground systems.
The second area of business are launchers. Launcher activities include operational launch systems sales (mainly to Arianespace) and development and consolidation activities, mostly in support of
the Ariane and Vega systems evolution and towards new systems (e.g. smaller and/or reusable systems).
In 2023, the European space manufacturing industry successfully delivered 141 satellites to the launch pad, totalling 42 tonnes. The total launch mass in 2023 is in decrease compared to 2022 (64 tonnes) even though the number of spacecraft is higher. This is explained by the production of smaller spacecraft and results in less business for European manufacturers.
Space industry
- €12.8 bn
Turnover in 2023
- 62,000
Employment
62,000 people employed by the European space industry in 2023
Building an integrated European space economy is essential for our technological sovereignty.
Facts & figures by sector
Download Facts & Figures 2024
ASD Facts & Figures 2024 offers a comprehensive analysis of the European aerospace, security, and defence industries' performance in 2023, highlighting pivotal trends, key challenges, and looking at the economic impact of these sectors. The report also underscores the vital role of research and development in driving innovation and sustaining global competitiveness.
Eurospace
ASD Eurospace fosters the development of space activities in Europe and promotes a better understanding of space industry related issues and problems. ASD Eurospace member companies today represent 90% of the total turnover of the European space industry.
Contact
Adrian Schmitz
- Communication Director
- +32 2 775 81 37