International Space Cooperation

Participation in international space cooperation, primarily through the European Space Agency (ESA) and the EU's space programs, is the mainstay of Norwegian public investment in space activities. ESA's programs are technology and competence development programs, where the purpose is to develop the next generation of space technology. Norway participates in order to develop the Norwegian technology industry and national competence environments, both to strengthen international competitiveness and to strengthen the ability to solve specific Norwegian user needs. The EU's programs are infrastructure programs, which build and operate operational infrastructure for satellite navigation, communication and earth observation (environmental monitoring, etc.). Norway participates wherever possible in order to gain access to services, influence over and insight into infrastructure that is very important for carrying out Norwegian government tasks, including in the High North. Efforts are now being made to ensure Norwegian participation in the EU's new program for secure global satellite communications, Secure Connectivity.

Norwegian interests in ESA and the EU are managed by the Norwegian Space Agency which also manages the national follow-up programs. National follow-on programs will contribute to better utilization of the Norwegian investments in ESA and EU programs and will facilitate the best possible industrial return to Norway as a result of participation.

Key figures 

• The total annual allocation for space activities in the national budget is approximately NOK 2.1 billion. In the budget for 2024, participation in ESA with around NOK 900 million and the EU space program with around NOK 900 million are the largest single items.
• In 2021, the Storting gave its consent to Norwegian participation in the EU space program 2021-2027 and the program was incorporated into the EEA Agreement in the autumn of 2021. The estimated cost of Norwegian participation is NOK 3.7 billion for the entire program period.
• In 2022, the Storting gave its consent for Norway to enter into new commitments to ESA industry-oriented programs of EUR 161 million from 2023."