This ESA Innovation Exchange aims to:
- Identify the ESA Grand Challenge for ISRU purposes as a catalyst of scientific and technological interests for space and non-space players;
- Increase awareness among stakeholders from the institutional and private sector concerning the ESA Grand Challenge Initiative about In Situ Resources Utilization (ISRU);
- Identify the potential spin-off applications of terrestrial technology in the space sector relevant to a specific challenge;
- Encourage stakeholders from the institutional and private sector to engage with ESA.
The event revolves around 4 thematic splinter group discussions on the range of most relevant topics, e. g. consumable and non consumable resources, optimal hardware for ISRU, energy, extraction and constructions, metals, etc. These will form the basis for eliciting ideas for potential participants in the challenge.
The Innovation Exchange will highlight cross-synergies between space and terrestrial R&D, and encourage the transfer of know-how and technologies between different sectors. The ultimate goal is to benefit both space exploration and people on Earth.