Scientific analysis and exploitation of space data
EU-wide funding call for the scientific analysis and utilization of data from space missions (including CubeSat and SmallSat). Submission deadline: 03.09.2026.
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Grant criteria
Funding objective
Funding of research and innovation projects for the analysis (including validation) and subsequent evaluation of data from scientific and exploration instruments as well as missions (astronomical, astrophysical, cosmological, heliophysical, deep space, and planetary exploration) with the aim of generating new scientific results, high-quality data products, and innovative methods for the European science archive and international cooperation.
Eligible expenses
- Personnel expenses
- Subcontractor costs
- Material costs for data management and IT infrastructure
- Travel expenses for field measurements
- Publication costs
Non-eligible expenses
- Retroactive costs
- Debt settlement
- Acquisition of real estate
Eligible to apply
- Companies
- Non-profit Organizations
- Educational Institutions
- Public Institutions
Funding requirements
- Eligible countries: EU Member States and associated countries
- Compliance with formal call conditions
- Possession of the required financial and operational capacities
- Adherence to ethical and safety regulations
Documents required for application
- Application form Part A and Part B
- Detailed budget table (lump sum)
- Ethics self-assessment
- Financial and operator declaration
- Proof of facility security clearance (if applicable)
Evaluation criteria
- Excellence of the research approach
- Expected impact and exploitation plan
- Quality and efficiency of implementation
Description
The EU call “Scientific analysis and exploitation of space data” supports scientific and exploratory projects for the evaluation of space mission data, including CubeSat and SmallSat initiatives. The objective is the validation and analysis of data from astronomical, astrophysical, cosmological, heliophysical, deep space, and planetary missions to generate groundbreaking insights and high-quality data products. Additionally, advanced methods such as artificial intelligence, multidimensional data fusion, and novel visualization techniques are employed. Projects are to be closely linked with the European science archive by utilizing data holdings from the ESA Space Science Archives and international missions. An interdisciplinary collaboration at the European and global level is sought to prepare future missions and strengthen the networking of scientific teams.
Eligible applicants include companies, research institutions, educational establishments, and public bodies from EU Member States and associated countries. Grants ranging from €1.5 to €2.5 million per project (100% of eligible costs) will be awarded. Funding covers personnel and subcontractor costs, IT infrastructure, travel expenses, and publications; retrospective costs or real estate investments are excluded. Evaluation criteria include excellence, expected impact with a utilization plan, as well as the quality and efficiency of implementation. Application forms (Parts A & B), budget tables, and ethics and security declarations must be submitted by 3 September 2026, 17:00 Brussels time, via the EU Funding & Tenders Portal. Compliance with ethical requirements, security regulations, and gender equality plans are central funding conditions. Projects benefit from a 100% EU funding rate and can serve as a flagship initiative to sustainably strengthen European cutting-edge research in the field of space data.
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