Access to space

Each proposal shall address only one of the following two sub-topics:

a) Potential Launch system reusability technologies and their applicability for European needs: With an aim at further lowering cost for the next generation of European launchers and transportation systems, activities shall only address new technologies relevant to reusability, such as advanced avionics and data management (e.g. optimised return concepts including autonomous safety), advanced structural parts and materials, health monitoring systems and non-destructive control technologies, advanced propulsion systems & equipment (e.g. propellant management, disconnection systems and special ground systems). These could be used as building blocks for in-flight demonstration. The activities shall include an assessment of the cost effectiveness of the proposed new technologies expected for the exploitation phase (flight and ground operations) and an estimation of the necessary investments and time schedule needed to reach TRL 8/9.

TRL 5/6 should be sought at completion of the proposed activities in view of a possible IOD/IOV in-flight demonstration as a next step.

b) Launch system advanced manufacturing (e.g. tooling and machines) and modern infrastructures (including ground infrastructures for low cost European launch sites): Activities shall address technologies and processes applied to launch systems development, production, testing and operations (applicable to European space transportation systems including mini and micro launch systems) such as automation of activities (e.g. automated guided handling tools, automated integration, and inspection, collaborative robots, automated testing), digital technologies to the benefit of quality and costs (e.g. usage of COTS (commercial-of-the-shelf) equipment, digital assistance to operators, big data processing for continuous improvement), advanced materials with accent on low-cost manufacturing processes (e.g. 3D printing, composite, joining technology) and remote operations (e.g. remote control centre, improved safety management), ground infrastructures for European launch sites including for low cost access to space for mini, micro, nano satellites, including commercial initiatives. The proposed solutions to be considered will take into account the possible evolutions of the regulatory framework, in particular REACH, and will also take into account the environmental impacts and health risks.