European Space Agency (THIS) Plans to accept a slight increase in its scientific budget at a future ministerial meeting for funding new missions. Carol Mandell, Director of the ESA science program, announced the need for additional funding to implement future projects, in particular the mission to the icy satellite Saturn - Encelada.
ESA asks for additional funding in size 1% from the general budget. Preliminary increase in funding for science on 13% was approved in November 2022 year. However, due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine and high inflation, the program could not increase its capabilities.
The Agency has achieved significant cost efficiencies, freeing up reserve funds, intended for the Jupiter Icy Moons Explorer mission (JUICE), launched in 2023 year, which allowed to continue 10 other scientific missions. But, to implement future plans, outlined in the strategy “Vision 2050”, these measures are not enough.
One of the main missions is landing on the south pole of Enceladus 2052 year. The goal is to collect materials from the satellite's surface ocean. For, to achieve this goal, it is necessary to start the development of key technologies already in 2025 year.
ESA's budget proposals include international collaborations with NASA and JAXA, as well as continuing work on already designed missions. Everyone's support 23 member states are needed to increase funding for science, as academic programs are considered mandatory for all members.
Karol Mundell actively works with each member country, to get their support. She calls on scientists to come forward in support of the scientific program, emphasizing the importance of their contribution.
Source: https://spacenews.com/esa-seeks-modest-boost-to-science-budget/