ESA boss tires of being dragged around by NASA mood swings

Europe has become overly exposed to decisions made outside its control, prompting calls for autonomy in human spaceflight. NASA’s shifting priorities and funding have created uncertainty for European plans, including potential changes to the Lunar Gateway and cancellation of related efforts, as well as scrapping the over-budget and delayed Mars Sample Return mission. ESA has contributed to both initiatives and is concerned about reliance on third parties for major programs. ESA previously reduced reliance on Russia for missions such as ExoMars, and turbulence in US space policy has reinforced the need for independence. Autonomous human spaceflight is framed as necessary to secure freedom and enable broader benefits while inspiring future generations.

"“Europe has become too exposed to decisions beyond its control,” he said. NASA administrator Jared Isaacman recently announced changes that would pause, and likely cancel, the Lunar Gateway space station project in favor of a Moon base. The decision, along with scrapping the over-budget and delayed Mars Sample Return mission, does not sit well with ESA, which had a hand in both."

"“Europe must decide whether it prefers to be dependent on others to send its explorers into space or to assume its role as a fully capable space power. As the head of the European Space Agency (ESA), I am convinced that autonomous human spaceflight is not a luxury. It is a necessary anchor for Europe to secure its freedom to unlock the scientific, economic, strategic and geopolitical benefits of space and to inspire a new generation to shape Europe's future.”"

"Aschbacher warned of the potential for dependence on third parties for programs including human spaceflight. ESA removed reliance on Russia for missions such as ExoMars, and turbulence in US space policy has given the agency pause for thought. In 2025, an agency insider referred to NASA as “an abusive spouse who could lash out at any moment in unpredictable ways.”"

"“I'm glad,” a source told The Register. “The US has fucked us around for too long.” Aschbacher and ESA would not put it so bluntly. However, one of ESA's strengths is also one of its"

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