Reinforcing EU autonomous access to space through EU-based spaceports

Overview

Supports the development of EU-based spaceports and ground facilities to enhance Europe’s autonomous access to space, targeting launch service providers and infrastructure developers to reduce non-EU dependencies.

Who Can Apply

Legal entities established in EU Member States, Norway, or Iceland, including consortia with EU launch service providers as ultimate users of the facilities. Entities controlled by non-eligible countries may participate only with approved guarantees.

Funding Details

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

What Is Funded

Development of ground facilities for EU launch services, including launch pads, integration and storage facilities, control command centers, payload processing, tracking and safety systems, and propellant storage. Projects must complement existing national and ESA initiatives.

Technology / Maturity Requirements

Projects must target Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) 4 to 6.

Key Dates

• Open date: 2026-03-09
• Deadline: 2026-09-02

Application Process (High-Level)

Single-stage submission via the Funding & Tenders Portal. Applicants must complete a compulsory questionnaire on ownership and control, with all declarations uploaded as a single file.

Geographic Scope & Language

Eligible countries: EU Member States, Norway, and Iceland. Applications must be submitted in English.

Notes

• Projects must use Copernicus and/or Galileo/EGNOS for satellite-based data if applicable.
• Synergies with past Horizon Europe actions (e.g., HORIZON-CL4-2023-SPACE-01-23, HORIZON-CL4-2025-02-SPACE-11) are encouraged.
• Gender dimension integration is required only if relevant to project objectives.
• Entities assessed as high-risk suppliers of mobile network communication equipment are ineligible unless mitigating guarantees are provided.