The 72nd International Astronautical Congress served as the launch pad for EURO2MOON, a Luxembourg-based non-profit organization promoting a better use of natural lunar resources. The creation of the project, a joint effort from Air Liquide, Airbus and ispace Europe, was announced on October 26th at the global space conference taking place at the World Trade Center in Dubai.

As the world’s premier space event, IAC brought together global space actors to share developments, connect on partnerships, and launch project ideas.

This aim of this project is to accelerate the cis-lunar economy, promoting topics related to the exploration of the lunar surface and the utilization of its resources in a commercial and sustainable way. Topics such as long duration transport, life support, and energy needs for scientific and commercial application will be addressed via the exchange platform by partners in both the public and private sectors.

As part of the announcement at the IAC, the European Space Resources Innovation Centre (ESRIC) officially stated its intention to join EURO2MOON as the first non-founding member. Jean Jacques Dordain, former ESA Director General (2003-2015), has become the first honorary member.

Unifying a common industrial vision for the cis-lunar economy across Europe is another key objective of EURO2MOON, with the overall goal to position Europe as an industry leader. As the location of EURO2MOON’s headquarters, Luxembourg will be at the center of this new industrial economy.

The association is open to industrial and research organizations with their headquarters or key activities in the European Union or a member state of the European Space Agency. Involvement in the EURO2MOON initiative will be especially beneficial to those with a hand in the development of technologies or services that can benefit lunar resources management.