Columbus - The European role

European participation in the Space Station effort is asserted to be part of an intent to build a subsequent autonomous European space complex serviced by the Hermes mini-Shuttle. The European station, already named the Columbus, is presently receiving a technical analysis. The definition studies will begin in 1986. A manned module will be launched by the Shuttle and become part of the NASA Space Station, then will be followed by an unmanned platform, most likely in polar orbit. The manned unit could be either linked to the Space Station or fly in formation with it. The conditions for European cooperative efforts with NASA have been defined, and include access to the Station and all related facilities, protection of proprietary contributions and an absence of discrimination against European users.