Luxembourg in space?

Luxembourg hopes to play a major role in future European space exploration after applying for presidency of the European Space Agency (ESA) from 2012 to 2015.

The Grand Duchy, which is the ESA's youngest member, submitted a joint application with Switzerland for the role.

If the bid takes off, it could see the pint-sized country play a key role in what is widely expected to be a crucial phase in the evolution of Europe's space activities.

The ESA was set up as an intergovernmental organisation to find out more about the earth, solar system and the universe, to develop satellite-based technologies and services and promote European industries.

Luxembourg joined the ESA in June 2005 and has since developed its own space policy in a bid to play a larger role in the Agency's programmes.

It also set up a national support measure, dubbed LuxLAUNCH, which brings together several authorities and individuals in Luxembourg.