Preparing demonstration missions for Earth Observation and Satellite telecommunication for Space solutions (Space Partnership)

The “Preparing demonstration missions for Earth Observation and Satellite telecommunication for Space solutions (Space Partnership)” is an EU-funded innovation partnership under Horizon Europe. It targets companies, start-ups, educational institutions, non-profit organizations, as well as research institutions and universities from EU member states, Norway, and Iceland. At least three independent partners must cooperate and demonstrate their own technical and financial capacities. The objective is to promote mid- to high-TRL developments and demonstration missions in the fields of Earth Observation (EO) and Satellite Communication (SatCom). With a funding rate of 70% to 100% and a budget volume of €5–10 million per project over a duration of 36 months, personnel costs, travel expenses, equipment and material costs, as well as subcontractor services are covered. Evaluation is based on the level of innovation, market relevance, and quality of implementation. Applications must be submitted by 03.09.2026.

The focus lies on end-to-end solutions for EO and SatCom systems that employ advanced technologies such as modular RF payloads or onboard data processing in LEO/VLEO. The projects aim to strengthen European competitiveness by advancing global, flexible, and responsive space-based services. Close collaboration between industry, SMEs, and research institutions ensures the rapid market introduction of innovations. A structured exploitation and dissemination plan, including communication activities, guarantees the sustainability of the results. Interested stakeholders benefit from a recognized EU partnership as well as potential STEP seals and can obtain further information and find partners via national contact points and the EU Funding & Tenders Portal.