Estonia will sign the accession agreement with ESA in February 2015.

"As a member of the European Space Agency, Estonia can through various programs implement and develop its own high-tech knowledge and skills in the field of space. This is a great opportunity for our researchers and companies to have a say in the development of the European space industry," said Sulling.

In addition to the mandatory research programs, Estonia can participate in ESA optional programs that are selected in the first half of next year.

Estonia must pay when joining ESA a one-time entrance fee of 600,000 euros. After becoming a full member, Estonia will pay each year 870,000 euros to finance ESA mandatory activities.

"Space is an expensive area, and each member state has a role to play there. For Estonia, it is important that through ESA orders, as large as possible sum would come back to the Estonian economy," said Sulling.

After full membership, on 1 January 2016, Estonia's six-year transition period will start, during which ESA guarantees Estonia targeted orders worth 500,000 euros. The purpose of the transitional period is to prepare the Estonian industry and science for the entry into the space industry.

The European Space Agency's final decision about Estonia becoming a full member will be made at the ESA Council meeting on 17-18 December.