Preparing demonstration missions for Earth Observation and Satellite telecommunication for Space solutions (Space Partnership)

Overview

Funding for mid-to-high maturity technology developments in Earth observation (EO) and satellite telecommunications (SatCom), focusing on demonstration missions that enhance European competitiveness in space systems. Targets consortia of industry, SMEs, research institutions, and academia to advance secure, AI-driven, and interoperable EO and SatCom solutions.

Who Can Apply

Legal entities established in EU Member States, Norway, or Iceland, including consortia of industry, SMEs, research institutions, and academia. 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
• Funding form: Lump sum
• Co-funding: Not specified

What Is Funded

• SatCom: End-to-end mission capabilities, secure services, RF payloads, modular testbeds, onboard RF signal processing, and distributed system architectures.
• EO: LEO/VLEO equipment, real-time reaction technologies, onboard processing, ground segment standardization, and multi-source intelligence fusion.
• Cross-cutting: Synergetic technologies for EO and SatCom (e.g., operational optimization, inter-satellite links, optical communications), in-orbit software demonstrations, and AI-driven space systems.
• Focus on on-ground relevant environment or in-orbit demonstrations, with emphasis on commercialization and EU non-dependence.

Technology / Maturity Requirements

• Technology Readiness Level (TRL): 7–9

Key Dates

• Open date: 2026-03-09
• Deadline: 2026-09-02T22:00:00Z

Application Process (High-Level)

• Single-stage submission via the Funding & Tenders Portal.
• Includes compulsory declaration of ownership and control, assembled by the coordinator.
• Evaluation based on award criteria, with potential STEP Seal for eligible proposals.

Post-Award Obligations

• Use of Copernicus and/or Galileo/EGNOS data if satellite-based services are employed.
• Compliance with lump-sum grant rules, including reporting and dissemination requirements.
• Intellectual property must remain under EU control during and after the project.

Geographic Scope & Language

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

Notes

• Proposals must clearly identify the primary R&I area addressed and demonstrate complementarity with existing EU/ESA-funded projects.
• Gender dimension integration is required only if relevant to the research objectives.
• Entities assessed as high-risk suppliers of mobile network communication equipment are ineligible unless exempted by guarantees.