ISOS4I Pilot Mission Integrated Ground Test and consolidation of space-compatible USI solutions

Overview

Funding for consortia to validate and qualify components of the ISOS4I pilot mission through an integrated ground test, consolidating space-compatible Universal Service Interface (USI) solutions. Targets European space industry actors, including industry, SMEs, and research institutions, to advance in-space servicing and infrastructure capabilities.

Who Can Apply

Consortia of legal entities established in EU Member States, Norway, or Iceland. Must include beneficiaries of the ISOS Pilot Mission Coordination & Support Action. Entities controlled by non-eligible countries may participate only with approved guarantees demonstrating no negative impact on EU strategic interests.

Funding Details

Maximum grant amount: 15,000,000 EUR. Funding is provided as a lump sum.

What Is Funded

• Integrated ground test (TRL 6) of ISOS4I mission components (Servicing, HOST, Logistic, satAPPs) with applicable servicing interfaces and baseline demonstration scenarios.
• Final maturation, verification, and qualification (TRL 7) of consolidated USI solution(s), including opportunities for in-orbit demonstration/validation (IOD/V).
• Development of a promotional video and VR experience for public dissemination of the ISOS4I pilot mission concept.

Technology / Maturity Requirements

• Activities must achieve TRL 6-7 by project end.
• Reference TRL definition: ISO 16290:2013 (space sector).
• Proposals must integrate previous R&I outcomes and involve key technology/service providers.

Key Dates

• Open date: 2027-03-08
• Deadline: 2027-09-01T22:00:00Z

Application Process (High-Level)

Single-stage submission via the Funding & Tenders Portal. Proposal page limit: 45 pages. Includes compulsory declaration of ownership and control.

Post-Award Obligations

• Close collaboration with linked actions under related Horizon Europe topics.
• Continuous coordination with the European Commission and EU Member States via the ISOS Expert Group.
• Dissemination and communication activities, including public outreach.

Geographic Scope & Language

• Eligible countries: EU Member States, Norway, Iceland.
• Application language: English.

Notes

• Proposals must use Copernicus and/or Galileo/EGNOS for satellite-based data/services if applicable.
• Test facilities for the ground demonstrator must be identified in the proposal.
• Gender dimension integration is required only if relevant to research objectives.
• Entities assessed as high-risk suppliers of mobile network communication equipment are ineligible unless exempted by approved guarantees.