Digital enablers and building blocks for Earth Observation and Satellite telecommunication for Space solutions

The main goal of this opportunity is to boost research and innovation in satellite communication (SatCom) and Earth Observation (EO) technologies. It aims to help the European Space Industry remain a key player in the global connectivity market and to foster new commercial services and applications through digitalization. The focus is on improving SatCom mission capabilities, developing advanced digital technologies for EO, and maturing shared building blocks like security and high-performance processing. Projects should address enhancements in 5G/6G compatibility, AI algorithms, and cloud-based architectures. The opportunity is open to organizations in EU countries and certain associated or eligible non-EU countries.

• Proposals must follow specific page limits and layout requirements.
• Projects must protect European communication networks.
• For projects using satellite-based data, Copernicus and/or Galileo/EGNOS must be used (other services may also be included).
• Applicants must be from eligible countries as defined by the program.
• Applicants must show financial and operational capacity.
• Proposals should align with the goals of the European Partnership on "Globally Competitive Space Systems" and complement existing technologies.

Examples:

• A project developing a new AI-based processing tool for EO satellites using Copernicus data.
• A proposal to create a secure, high-speed SatCom system that is compatible with 5G networks in Europe.
• An initiative to design miniaturized instruments for EO missions, improving resource optimization and security.

• Personnel costs for researchers and technical staff
• Costs for purchasing or developing hardware and software
• Travel and accommodation for project-related activities
• Subcontracting specific tasks or services
• Equipment and materials needed for research and testing
• Costs related to data management and cloud services
• Dissemination and communication activities
• Training and capacity-building actions
• Project management and coordination expenses
• Indirect costs covered by the lump sum

All expenses must fit within the lump sum system. Further restrictions may apply as detailed in the program guidance.

• Budget for this Call: 6,000,000€
• Number of Grants attributed: 3
• Maximum value per project: 5,000,000€
• Minimum value per project: 1,000,000€

• Proposals must meet page limit and layout requirements.
• Applicants must be based in eligible EU or associated countries (some non-EU countries may qualify).
• Projects using satellite-based data must use Copernicus and/or Galileo/EGNOS systems.
• Applicants must demonstrate financial and operational capacity.
• Alignment with the partnership's objectives is required.
• Compliance with protection requirements for European communication networks is necessary.
• Applicants may need to show complementarity with existing European technologies and previously funded projects.