EU-Japan cooperation on the exploitation of Quantum Space Gravimetry data

The main goal of this opportunity is to lay the foundation for using Quantum Space Gravimetry (QSG) mission data and to encourage collaboration between the scientific communities of the EU and Japan. It aims to show the advantages of space-based gravity field data, involve key user institutions early, and identify Earth science topics of shared EU-Japan interest that depend on space gravity data. The focus includes creating new algorithmic solutions to demonstrate the benefits of QSG, discussing the mission's expected performance, and supporting European space policy and environmental goals by advancing quantum sensing technology. The opportunity specifically targets joint activities between the EU and Japan.

• The consortium must include at least one legal entity established in Japan.
• If using satellite-based Earth observation, positioning, navigation, or timing data, projects must use Copernicus and/or Galileo/EGNOS data and services (other sources may also be used).
• EU and Horizon Europe Associated Country scientists are eligible for funding; Japanese scientists must fund their own activities at a matching level.
• Only one project will be funded under this call.
• Prepare for the future use of Quantum Space Gravimetry (QSG) mission data.
• Include active collaboration between EU and Japanese scientific communities.
• Propose innovative algorithms showcasing the added value of QSG data.
• Focus on Earth science applications relevant to both EU and Japan.
• Engage potential users early and include clear dissemination activities.
• Include a discussion on anticipated performance of the QSG mission

Examples:

• A team of EU and Japanese scientists develops new data analysis tools for QSG mission data, using Copernicus satellite data for validation.
• A collaborative project investigates climate change impacts by analyzing gravity field changes, with both EU and Japanese research institutions contributing expertise and resources.
• A partnership creates an open-access platform for sharing QSG data, ensuring both Copernicus and Galileo data are integrated for broader Earth science applications.

• Lump sum payments for eligible project activities
• Personnel costs for EU and Horizon Europe Associated Country scientists
• Research and development expenses related to QSG data exploitation
• Costs for developing new algorithms and software
• Travel and collaboration costs between EU and Japanese partners
• Data processing and analysis expenses
• Workshops and meetings to engage user institutions
• Dissemination and outreach activities
• Project management and coordination costs

Restrictions: Only EU and Horizon Europe Associated Country scientists are eligible for funding; Japanese partners must self-fund their participation. All eligible costs are covered as a lump sum as defined by the Horizon Europe Programme.

• Budget for this call: 500,000€
• Number of Grants attributed: 1
• Budget per grant: 500,000€

• The consortium must include at least one legal entity established in Japan.
• Applicants must be from the EU or Horizon Europe Associated Countries to receive funding.
• Japanese scientists must fund their own activities at a level matching the EU contribution.
• If using satellite-based data, projects must use Copernicus and/or Galileo/EGNOS data and services (other sources may also be used).
• Projects must support cooperation between the EU and Japan in quantum space gravimetry data exploitation.
• Only one project will be selected for funding under this call.