European Space Agency (THIS) starts 2025 year with the budget of 7,68 billion euros (7,91 A billion dollars), what on 1,4% Less, than in 2024 year (7,79 billion euros). The main part of the budget (about two thirds) is formed at the expense of contributions from member countries, the rest comes from the European Commission, Eumetsat and other partner programs.
The three largest countries – donors — Germany, Italy and Great Britain - significantly reduced their contributions to 2025 year. Example, the UK's contribution decreased from approx 450 million euros in 2024 year before 320 million euros in 2025 year. However, ESA is waiting, that individual countries may increase funding in the coming weeks.
Despite budget cuts, ESA underlines the importance of space investment for Europe. The agency's budget is only a third of NASA's, and US military space spending is even higher. ESA plans to offer member countries an ambitious program package and call for increased funding.
The main task of ESA in 2025 year will be preparation for the conference of ministers, which will take place in November in Bremen, Germany. At this meeting, the member states will decide, which programs to finance in the next three years. As part of this ESA event, probably, will seek funding to continue existing initiatives:
– The second phase of the commercial cargo spacecraft program (with the participation of Thales Alenia Space and The Exploration Company).
– European competition for the development of new launch systems.
– The Ramses mission to study the asteroid Apophis before its approach to Earth in 2029 year.
Source: https://spacenews.com/esa-budget-dips-slightly-in-2025/