"This study is aiming to provide the EC with a comprehensive set of information to position Europe’s objectives and capabilities within the international context for the next fifteen years in order to support its role in defining the future direction of the European space exploration programme. To do so, the study will be based on a detailed international benchmark of the European space exploration programme conducted at two levels:1)Benchmark of space exploration programmes and initiatives in Europe and worldwide, with the objective to identify current and future directions, objectives, frameworks, missions and projects for space exploration.2) Benchmark of industrial capabilities related to space exploration in Europe and worldwide with the objective to map current and future expertise and capabilities in critical technology areas required to pursue future projects.This benchmark assessment will result in a gap analysis where objectives and capabilities will be compared, in order to develop scenarios for future European cooperation opportunities. Recommendations will be derived for the EC on how to optimize European position supported by an action plan."