The European Space Agency has signed a memorandum of understanding with Axiom Space in Paris to explore cooperation in low Earth orbit after the International Space Station era. The framework covers possible astronaut missions on Axiom Station, ESA contributions to infrastructure and utilisation, microgravity research, payload integration, and training and operational support for Axiom’s spacewalk programme.
The agreement reflects Europe’s push to secure commercial access options as the ISS approaches retirement and private stations move towards service. ESA framed any future steps as dependent on decisions by its member states, leaving the MoU as a preparatory step rather than a binding commitment. The move also fits a wider shift in the agency’s commercial LEO strategy, as it looks to maintain European human-spaceflight and research access through industry partnerships rather than a single orbital platform.