The Global Space Race Gets a New Boost—from Europe and India
For decades, the conversation around space exploration has been dominated by the United States and China. With billions invested and countless successful missions, these two giants have remained unchallenged at the front of the pack. But that’s starting to change. Across Europe and Asia, startups are rewriting the rules of space tech with innovation and ambition. From Germany’s Phoenix capsule—the first reusable space capsule of a privately developed European spacecraft to reach space—to a bustling new wave of rocket builders in India, the new space race is rapidly expanding its ranks.
Private Pioneers and Public Dreams
A look behind the scenes reveals a global movement powered by grit, vision, and a good dose of trial-and-error. In Germany, the team behind Alpha is mastering the art of orbital logistics with precision testing and homegrown engineering. Meanwhile, in the heart of Hyderabad, young space entrepreneurs are defying gravity—literally. With government support and personal savings, these startups are crafting reusable rockets and dreaming big. The combination of raw innovation and national pride is fueling a renaissance that could make space more accessible—and more competitive—than ever before.
From Launch Pads to Launch Plans
What unites these diverse efforts is a hunger to participate in a future that’s long felt out of reach. Limited launches and lower investment in Europe contrast starkly with America’s and China’s momentum, but the tide is turning. In India, public initiatives like “Make in India” are sparking interest among young engineers and attracting crucial funding. And in Europe, despite slower capital flow, companies like Alpha press forward—undaunted. As these next-gen players prepare for launch, one thing is clear: the space race is no longer just a two-way sprint—it’s a global marathon, and more contenders are lining up by the day.
This video summary was created by AI from the original DW script. It was edited by a journalist before publication.