The European Space Agency has awarded a contract to two European industrial consortia to carry out preliminary studies on the feasibility of a European-led orbital outpost, as it prepares for the end of International Space Station utilisation. ESA describes the outpost as one of several options being explored for the post-ISS era, alongside possible cooperation with future commercial orbital destinations.

The two studies, led respectively by Airbus Defence and Space (Germany) and OHB (Germany), involve six additional industrial and institutional entities. They will assess the technical and programmatic feasibility of developing and operating an outpost capable of supporting human spaceflight, scientific research and technology development, including potential infrastructure, transportation and operational services. The Pre-Phase A studies began in June 2026 under ESA's European Exploration Envelope Programme and will run for approximately nine months.

Daniel Neuenschwander, ESA's Director of Human and Robotic Exploration, said Europe is exploring different options to ensure its continued presence and role in low Earth orbit, and that the studies will help assess how European industry could take a key role in developing next-generation orbital infrastructure. ESA says the work draws on Europe's experience with the Columbus laboratory and the European Service Module for NASA's Orion spacecraft, and is intended to prepare potential future programmatic decisions by ESA Member States.