From the Space Economy to Space Economics

This workshop will explore how economic theory and empirical methods can be applied to the rapidly expanding space sector, aiming to establish space economics as a recognised academic field and to examine how regulation and market design shape space activities and investments.

Space technologies are being woven into every sector of the economy at an unprecedented pace, creating impacts that ripple across infrastructure, governance, and commerce. The economic impact? It is no longer measured it in billions, but trillions. And the transformation has only just begun. Despite this explosive growth, space economics is not yet established as an academic discipline. While industry analysts track market trends, measure the size of the space economy and, in some cases, the impact of space activities on the broader economy, there remains a critical gap: the rigorous conceptual frameworks, empirical methods, and scholarly production needed to truly capture the impact of regulations and market design on space operations and investments.

To address this gap and establish space economics as a recognized field of study, the European Space Policy Institute (ESPI) in collaboration with the Florence School of Regulation, will be co-organising a workshop titled “From the Space Economy to Space Economics . This workshop aims to investigate diverse research methodologies applied to space, and to cultivate a community of space economists who can advance the discipline.

The workshop will explore three methodological approaches:

-Market models – equilibrium models that capture the impact of regulation and market design on space operations and investment

-Econometric analysis – benchmarking the economic performance of space companies, space markets, and space policies using empirical data

-Conceptual analysis – qualitative and theoretical work that advances economic understanding of space

The seminar is designed to fully engage all participants in exploring the foundations of space economics as an academic discipline. Each session will feature a presenter who introduces the key research approach, followed by a discussant who will offer critical perspectives and raise questions for debate. Each session will then feature a roundtable discussion where all participants are invited to challenge assumptions, share insights from their own research, and collectively shape the contours of this emerging field.

Expression of interest

The seminar is designed for space professionals engaged in economic policy and academics seeking to contribute to the development of space economics as a scholarly discipline. To ensure a high-quality, interactive learning environment, participation is capped at 20 attendees.

Interested candidates are invited to submit an Expression of Interest through the online application form, along with:

·    A short curriculum vitae (CV), and

·    A letter of motivation

Selected participants will be notified of the outcome of their application by email.

At the EUI and the Robert Schuman Centre, we are dedicated to removing barriers and providing equal opportunities for everyone. Please indicate in the registration form your accessibility needs, if any. Alternatively, you can contact the logistics organiser of the event.

At FSR, we actively work to achieve gender-balanced representation at all our events. As a platform that connects diverse voices and perspectives in the sector, we strongly value inclusive and gender-balanced panel debates and training courses.