Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S) evolution: new and innovative processing and methods for future Sentinels and other satellites for reanalyses

The main goal of this opportunity is to advance the Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S) by developing innovative methods for processing and using data from upcoming Sentinels and other satellites for Earth-system reanalyses. The focus is on improving how observational data is integrated into climate datasets, enhancing data assimilation techniques, and expanding reanalysis products to cover longer time periods. Projects are encouraged to use advanced tools such as artificial intelligence and machine learning, improve the use of satellite data, reduce computing energy and carbon footprint, and foster international collaboration. The scope is global, with an emphasis on supporting climate monitoring and applications in Europe and worldwide.

• Projects must follow page limit and layout requirements as specified in the application guidelines.
• Proposals should use satellite-based earth observation, positioning, navigation, or timing data and services, with a focus on Copernicus and/or Galileo/EGNOS data.
• Other relevant data and services may also be included.
• Participants from outside the EU or non-associated countries may apply if specific funding provisions are met.

Examples:

• A project using AI to recover and process old satellite climate data for better long-term climate records.
• A proposal that integrates Sentinel satellite data with local weather data to improve climate event predictions in Europe.
• An international collaboration to create new methods for reducing the carbon footprint of climate data processing.

• Personnel costs for researchers and technical staff
• Purchase or use of satellite data and related services
• Costs for software development and data processing tools
• Expenses for AI/ML model development and testing
• Travel and collaboration expenses for international partners
• Workshops, meetings, and dissemination activities
• Equipment needed for data storage and processing
• Outreach and communication materials
• Project management and administrative support

Restrictions: All costs must be covered under the lump sum funding model as defined by the Horizon Europe Programme. Only expenses directly related to the project activities are eligible.

• Budget for this Call: 10,000,000€
• Number of Grants attributed: 1
• Maximum value per project: 10,000,000€
• Minimum value per project: 10,000,000€

• Applicants must follow the requirements outlined in the Horizon Europe Work Programme guidelines.
• Projects must use Copernicus and/or Galileo/EGNOS satellite-based data and services; other data may also be included.
• Proposals must comply with the application form and submission system specified for this call.
• Applicants can be from EU or associated countries, and certain non-EU participants may also be eligible if specific conditions are met.
• Consortiums are encouraged, and the Joint Research Centre (JRC) may participate as a member.
• International cooperation is encouraged, especially with space agencies, meteorological services, and relevant organizations.
• Projects should address the focus areas such as data rescue, innovative data processing, and climate monitoring.