The future of European exploration and the decisions ahead took centre stage during ESA’s third day at IAC 2026. ESA Director General Josef Aschbacher joined representatives of ESA Member States to discuss Europe’s ambitions in low Earth orbit, around the Moon and beyond. The day also saw ESA Director of Space Transportation Géraldine Naja receive the 2026 WIA-Europe Outstanding Achievement Award in recognition of her contribution to the European space sector.