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ESA Backs SpaceHub Cologne, Moving Exploration Directorate

Letters of intent formalize joint ESANRW funding, with planning to begin in early 2026.

Overview

  • ESA plans a new building on the DLR campus in Cologne to anchor the SpaceHub initiative.
  • The site will host the seat of ESA’s directorate for astronautic and robotic exploration.
  • Director Daniel Neuenschwander says on-site staffing will nearly triple after the relocation.
  • NRW projects around 250 new jobs, with financing intended jointly by ESA and the state under letters signed by Mona Neubaur, Walther Pelzer, Klaus Hamacher, and Daniel Neuenschwander.
  • Co-location with the European Astronaut Centre and the LUNA moon-simulation facility is intended to create synergies for upcoming missions, including lunar work.