Digital enablers and building-blocks for Earth Observation and Satellite telecommunication for Space solutions (Space Partnership)

The call "Digital enablers and building-blocks for Earth Observation and Satellite telecommunication for Space solutions (Space Partnership)" is aimed at consortia consisting of industrial companies (especially SMEs), universities, research institutions, as well as non-profit and public organizations in EU Member States or associated countries. Funding is provided for research and innovation projects focused on the development, demonstration, and validation of digital end-to-end technologies in the field of Earth Observation (EO) and Satellite Communication (SatCom). The emphasis is on modular digitalization components (Low- to Mid-TRL), such as hybrid ground stations (RF/optical), high-performance data processing on the payload side, and algorithmic harmonization of various observation and communication missions. The project duration is 18 months, with a funding rate of 100% of eligible costs (personnel costs, material costs, subcontractor services) amounting to €3 to 6 million. Applications can be submitted in a single-stage procedure until 3 September 2026.

The objective is to strengthen the competitiveness and strategic autonomy of the European space industry through new digital building blocks for globally deployable EO and SatCom systems. Evaluation criteria include the level of innovation, contribution to EU competitiveness in the space sector, and the quality of cross-border partnerships. Requirements include a consortium of at least three independent partners from different countries within the EU or associated states, as well as demonstrable experience in space R&D. Submissions must be made electronically via the EU Funding & Tenders Portal. During project implementation, results and data must be published in accordance with Open Science principles, ethical and security aspects must be considered, and exploitation in standards or new market applications must be actively promoted.