This breeding ground of European space activities ...


I think I would prefer breeding ground

'kraamkamer' means all kinds of new activities are developed there


On the positive side, Europe has largely achieved self-sufficiency in space technology, based on decades of space research, becoming a leading commercial player, particularly in the production and deployment of launchers and space platforms. European satellites placed in orbit by European launchers provide businesses, public authorities and individuals with better telecommunications, more sustainable transport and mobility, environmental monitoring and faster response to natural disasters.


Space is a fertile breeding ground for cutting-edge research and innovation in the knowledge society and space applications are real growth- and competitiveness-boosters for European companies, providing new markets for European enterprises. For each Euro paid out for space research, there is a return of 3-4 Euros.


A more cohesive and consistent space policy will help to promote more efficient, beneficial and profitable space activities in Europe, avoiding delays like those experienced by GALILEO, the satellite positioning and navigation project which is now back on track to be up and running by 2008 and is expected to create some 145 000 jobs.

http://www.timeshighereducation.co.uk/story.asp?storyCode=17...

ESA
Breeding ground for young space spin-off firms

http://www.esa.int/SPECIALS/TTP2/SEMXMQOWXGG_3.html

The new Dutch ESA Business Incubation Centre (ESA BIC) was officially launched yesterday at the Space Expo in Noordwijk, the Netherlands. In the next four years, forty innovative companies will find here the facilities to bring space technology down to earth.

'Why do we need a space incubator? Because we believe in it”, said minister Van der Hoeven. “This will be a breeding ground for new ideas. The place where research, dreams and discovery meet.

http://www.spaceoffice.nl/en/News/605.html