TNO Space Event: Building European Space Autonomy
7 December 2026 | ESA ESTEC, Noordwijk
As Europe faces growing geopolitical uncertainty, technological competition, and increasing reliance on critical space-based services, the need for sovereign European capabilities has never been greater.
Space is no longer solely a scientific domain. It has become a strategic asset that underpins security, economic prosperity, critical infrastructure, connectivity, and technological leadership. From secure communications and quantum networks to navigation, Earth observation, and defence applications, dual-use technologies are shaping Europe's ability to act independently in an increasingly complex world.
This facility will become the primary link between the Eagle-1 satellite and the European quantum communication network, strengthening Europe's ability to protect critical information, safeguard strategic interests, and build technological independence.
Bringing together European and Dutch policymakers, industry leaders, technology pioneers and end-users, Building European Space Autonomy will showcase how space technologies, quantum innovation and cybersecurity are converging to shape the next generation of secure communications. The event will also highlight the vital role of dual-use technologies in strengthening both economic competitiveness and societal resilience.
Morning Programme 09:30 | Quantum: Inaugurating space-enabled quantum networks in the Netherlands
- Explore the future of quantum-secure communications and European quantum networks.
- Gain insights into emerging applications, end-user perspectives and future use cases.
- Examine the open questions, conditions and next steps needed for quantum networks to deliver their full potential.
- Including speakers such as, Stephanie Wehner, Professor in quantum information at Delft University of Technology, and director of the Quantum Internet Alliance, Wojciech Kozlowski, Dutch National Lead on Quantum Networks at QDNL, Bor de Kock, Cryptography Lead, TNO, Ingrid Romijn, CEO, Falqon® Systems, Daan Stellinga, CTO at QSA Technology, Bob Dirks, CEO at QuDef more to come.
Afternoon Programme 13:30 | Building European Space Autonomy
- Examine the role of space technologies in strengthening Europe's strategic autonomy and resilience.
- Discuss the importance of dual-use innovation for both civil and governmental applications.
- Join the official groundbreaking ceremony of the Eagle-1 optical ground station, a major milestone for Europe's future quantum communication infrastructure.
- Including speakers such as, Timo Pesonen, Director-General for Defence Industry and Space at the European Commission, Boudewijn Wijnands, CEO at Fortaegis, Julia Gottfriedsen, CTO at Constellr, Kees Buijsrogge, Director Space at TNO
Join leading decision-makers, innovators and international partners as we celebrate the next step towards a secure, resilient and autonomous European future in space.
* As capacity is limited, we may not be able to accommodate all registrations. You will receive a follow-up email confirming whether a place is available for you. Access to the event will be reserved for confirmed participants.