Can Sweden Help Europe Catch Up in Space?

In northern Sweden, deep within the Arctic forests near Kiruna, the Esrange Space Center has emerged as a key part of Europe’s efforts to build an independent foothold in space.

The state-owned facility, run by the Swedish Space Corporation, spans six square kilometers of base area with a 5,200 km² launch zone stretching toward the borders with Norway and Finland. Traditionally used for suborbital rockets, balloon experiments, and satellite communications, Esrange is now expanding into orbital rocket programs to give Europe its first mainland launch capability.

For decades, Europe has relied on NASA’s Cape Canaveral and France’s overseas base in French Guiana. But as the United States, China, and Russia ramp up their space programs, European governments and private companies are seeking greater autonomy.

Demand for satellites is booming, projected to rise from 8,000 in orbit today to 55,000 by 2030, creating both commercial and strategic pressure.

Esrange’s far-north geography allows clear satellite communication with polar orbits, while its vast uninhabited terrain ensures safe rocket landings.

Alongside Norway’s Andøya spaceport and projects in Spain, Portugal, Germany, and the UK, Esrange symbolizes Europe’s determination to remain relevant in a rapidly evolving global space race.