Digital solutions for autonomy for space transportation systems, design and simulation tools - Digital enablers and building blocks

The main goal of this opportunity is to support the advancement of digital solutions that enhance autonomy in space transportation systems. The focus is on developing and improving design and simulation tools, as well as other digital technologies that act as building blocks for future space transportation. Key areas include health monitoring, real-time subsystem monitoring, high-speed sensor networks, smart avionics, and AI-driven data processing. Projects should also address eco-design software tools and disruptive digital technologies to boost sustainability, reduce costs, and improve operational efficiency. This opportunity is open to organizations based in the EU, Norway, Iceland, Canada, New Zealand, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.

• Projects must follow the page limits and layout requirements set in the official application forms.
• Only legal entities from eligible countries (EU Member States, Norway, Iceland, Canada, New Zealand, Switzerland, UK) can participate.
• Proposals should focus on digital solutions for autonomous space transportation, such as eco-design tools, new digital technologies, or mission design models.
• Projects must promote collaboration between industry, SMEs, and research institutions, using existing European technologies.
• Activities should complement other EU, national, or ESA space projects.
• If using satellite data or services, applicants must use Copernicus and/or Galileo/EGNOS systems.
• The gender dimension should be considered if relevant to the research content.

Examples:

• A project developing smart avionics software for launch vehicles, involving a partnership between a university and a space technology company.
• An SME-led initiative to create AI algorithms for real-time health monitoring of satellite launch systems, building on previous ESA-funded research.
• A consortium project designing eco-friendly simulation tools for space missions, using Copernicus data and including partners from at least three eligible countries.

• Personnel costs for researchers, engineers, and support staff
• Costs for purchasing or leasing equipment and software
• Travel and subsistence expenses for project staff
• Subcontracting necessary technical or scientific services
• Costs related to data collection, processing, and analysis
• Materials and consumables directly linked to project activities
• Dissemination, communication, and publication expenses
• Costs for organizing or attending project-related events and workshops
• Project management and coordination costs
• Other direct costs necessary for project implementation

Note: Eligible expenses must fit within the lump sum funding framework. Further restrictions or requirements may apply, as detailed in the official application documents.

• Budget for this Call: 3,000,000€
• Number of Grants attributed: 1
• Maximum value per project: 2,000,000€
• Minimum value per project: 1,000,000€

• Applicants must be legal entities established in the EU, Norway, Iceland, Canada, New Zealand, Switzerland, or the United Kingdom.
• Entities controlled by organizations from non-eligible countries must provide guarantees to ensure no negative impact on EU strategic interests, autonomy, or security.
• All participants must complete a compulsory questionnaire about ownership and control as part of the application.
• Only proposals from eligible countries will be considered; proposals including non-eligible entities are not allowed unless exceptional guarantees are provided.
• Applicants must adhere to all formal requirements outlined in the application process.