Europa-Park and ESA Sign Memorandum of Understanding for New Space-Themed Area

Specifically, the plan is to dismantle the Euro-Mir roller coaster, which has been in operation for 29 years, at the end of the current season and rebuild it with new technology. The distinctive towers of the existing structure are to be preserved, as the park confirmed. Characteristic sections of the original track layout are also to remain at least partially recognisable.

Euro-Mir Gives Way to New Roller Coaster

In addition to the roller coaster, a total of two attractions and a large space shop are part of the plans. The area is also to integrate educational offerings, interactive formats, and true-to-original ESA exhibits, it was said. This means the cooperation goes well beyond a classic sponsoring partnership.

On the Europa-Park side, Managing Director Roland Mack signed the declaration; on the ESA side, Director of Mission Operations Rolf Densing. Mack spoke of a great opportunity and expressed pride in planning something together with the ESA. The ESA brings „die wissenschaftliche Exzellenz, die echten Missionen, die europäische Forschung und die technologische Innovation,“ said Mack. The park itself contributes its experience in storytelling: „Und wir bringen unsere Erfahrung im Geschichtenerzählen, im Auslösen von Emotionen bei Familien.“

Education and Experience in Space

ESA Director General Josef Aschbacher emphasised the ideal connection between the two organisations. „Was uns verbindet, ist die Überzeugung, dass große Visionen erst dann ihre volle Kraft entfalten, wenn sie Menschen erreichen und berühren,“ he explained. They hope that the collaboration with the park will make them better known among the general public.

Initial contacts between the park and the ESA took place in the anniversary year 2025, in which both Europa-Park and the ESA were able to celebrate their 50th anniversaries. The memorandum of understanding now signed forms the formal framework for the further cooperation. Exactly when the first elements of the new area will be accessible to visitors has not yet been communicated in detail, according to the park.

Outlook on 2028

According to both sides, the cooperation pursues above all the goal of inspiring children and young people in space-related topics and technology. Educational offerings, events, and experience formats are to run like a common thread throughout the new area. This is intended to add a scientific-technical dimension to the park visit.