ESA to study European crew capsule and its own orbital station

The European Space Agency has launched studies into a European-led space station and a crew transport capability. ESA Director General Josef Aschbacher estimates an independent system would take about 10 years and cost €10 billion, versus €5 billion to buy seats from partners.

• ESA started two studies on the feasibility of a European-led space station
• Independent crew system: about 10 years and €10 billion vs €5 billion to buy seats
• ALADDIN contract with The Exploration Company totals €760 million, €310 million for the Nyx demo mission
• Isar Aerospace's Spectrum reached orbit on Sept. 5 under the European Launcher Challenge