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Strategic Analysis
This Innovation Action (IA) targets the critical need for EU strategic autonomy in space by deploying a high and very high energy irradiation test facility for EEE components. A winning proposal must clearly demonstrate a robust, non-EU dependent supply chain for the facility's development, a credible business plan for its commercialization and open access, and a clear path to achieving superior performance compared to non-EU alternatives.
TRL 4 → 8
The description of the technology that will be used for providing the irradiation beam and high-level breakdown of the supply chain relevant for the whole test facility. Applicants should demonstrate that the supply chain and final test facility are free of any legal export restrictions or limitations, such as those established in the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) or equivalent instruments applicable in other non-EU jurisdictions. Applicants shall also report, in a dedicated subsection, if and which part of the supply chain is affected by non-EU export controls such as the Export Administration regulation (EAR) i.e. EAR99.
Analysing and describing, in detail , the full supply chain, each entity and its role in the supply chain, level of criticality and, if relevant, identify dependencies from outside EU;
Describing the technical roadmap and a business plan for commercialization (e.g. open access of the facility to the external space stakeholders) and future possible upgrades with accurate understanding of applications needs and relevance for EU space missions.
Undertaking a comprehensive literature review of the relevant high and very high energy radiation test facilities at global level reporting the state-of-the-art and highlighting potential gaps between current EU solutions and competition from outside EU.
Reinforcing EU strategic autonomy by reducing non-EU dependencies on critical space EEE components across their entire supply chain, including radiation testing facilities;
Providing unrestricted access to critical space EEE components and testing facilities relevant for EU space missions (Galileo, EGNOS, Copernicus, IRIS 2 and EU pilot missions on In-Orbit Space Operations and Quantum Gravimetry);
Developing or regaining capacity to operate independently in space by developing resilient space EEE components and testing facilities supply chains, relying on EU supply chains and/or trustable and reliable supply chains not affected by non-EU export restrictions;
Enhancing competitiveness by developing products and capabilities reaching equivalent or superior performance level than those from outside the EU and compete at worldwide level.
Accessing Space, i.e. the ability to transport satellites, cargo, and humans into space; build and launch the required vehicles, including re-usable systems; and operate the related facilities and services.
Using Space on Earth, i.e. the ability to provide space-based secure communication, navigation and Earth observation services and applications, including through the EU Space flagships Galileo, Copernicus and IRIS 2.
Monitoring Space, i.e. the ability to detect, track and anticipate the trajectory of spacecraft, Near-Earth objects, and space debris during their full lifetime; to share data with relevant stakeholders; and to provide solutions for safe international space traffic management. It also includes the tracking and anticipation of other impacts on the space environment, such as Space weather events.
Acting in Space, i.e. the ability to inspect, rendezvous and dock, grasp, repair, refuel, reconfigure, build, assemble and disassemble, reuse/recycle, relocate, remove and transport operational, non-operational, and other objects in space, including platforms or larger structures.
Exploring Space, i.e. the ability to conduct high profile space exploration activities, perform excellent science and exploit space data to increase our knowledge about the Universe and celestial bodies, with a view to their exploration for scientific and socio-economic benefits.
Boosting Space, i.e. the ability to sustain the above strategic capabilities through fostering the competitiveness of the EU space sector; improving education and developing the required skills; accelerating the pace of innovation; supporting EU non-dependency on critical technologies; and strengthening international cooperation.
Reducing non-EU dependencies on critical space technologies across their whole supply chain from advanced materials to components, equipment, and sub-systems.
Providing unrestricted access to advanced space technologies relevant for EU space missions and programme components.
Developing or regaining capacity to operate independently in space by developing resilient space technologies supply chains, relying on EU supply chains and/or trustable and reliable supply chains not affected by non-EU export restrictions.
Enhancing competitiveness by developing products and capabilities reaching equivalent or superior performance level than those from outside the EU and compete at worldwide level.
Opening new opportunities for manufacturers by reducing dependency on export restricted technologies.
EU Space Programme
highThe EU Space Programme is the overarching framework for all EU space activities, consolidating existing and new space initiatives under a single programme for the 2021-2027 period. It aims to ensure the continuity and evolution of flagship programmes like Galileo (navigation), Copernicus (Earth observation), and EGNOS (satellite-based augmentation system), while also introducing new components like Governmental Satellite Communications (GOVSATCOM) and Space Situational Awareness (SSA). Its primary goal is to strengthen the EU's autonomy, resilience, and leadership in space, providing high-quality, secure, and cost-effective space-derived data and services to citizens and businesses.
Proposals should demonstrate a clear understanding of how their activities contribute to the broader objectives of the EU Space Programme. Evaluators will look for alignment with the programme's priorities, such as enhancing the capabilities of Galileo, Copernicus, or EGNOS, or supporting the development of new components like GOVSATCOM or SSA. Projects should articulate how they leverage or contribute to the services and data provided by the EU's flagship space infrastructures, ensuring European non-dependence and fostering innovation in downstream applications.
Horizon Europe Regulation
highThe Horizon Europe Regulation (Regulation (EU) 2021/695) establishes the legal framework for the EU's flagship research and innovation programme for the 2021-2027 period. It defines the programme's objectives, structure (Pillars, Missions, Partnerships), funding instruments, and rules for participation. Horizon Europe aims to strengthen the EU's scientific and technological bases, foster competitiveness, deliver on EU strategic priorities like the green and digital transitions, and contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
Proposals must inherently comply with the Horizon Europe Regulation. Evaluators expect proposals to demonstrate a clear understanding of the programme's overall objectives, expected impacts, and cross-cutting priorities (e.g., gender equality, open science, international cooperation). Beyond mere compliance, proposals should articulate how they contribute to the broader strategic goals of Horizon Europe, such as strengthening European research excellence, fostering innovation ecosystems, and addressing societal challenges. Adherence to ethical principles and responsible research and innovation practices is also crucial.
EU Financial Regulation 2024/2509
highThis regulation governs the financial management of EU funds, ensuring transparency, accountability, and efficient use of resources. It is relevant for proposals involving large-scale piloting and validation of AI systems in healthcare.
Evaluators will look for clear financial planning, cost-efficiency analysis, and compliance with EU financial rules, particularly in demonstrating the economic viability and sustainability of the proposed AI solutions.
HE Framework Programme 2021/695
highRegulation (EU) 2021/695 establishes Horizon Europe as the EU's framework programme for research and innovation for the period 2021-2027. It defines the programme's overarching objectives, structure (Pillars, Missions, Partnerships), funding instruments, and general rules for participation, aiming to strengthen the EU's scientific and technological bases and foster competitiveness.
Proposals must demonstrate full compliance with the Horizon Europe Regulation, including its general objectives, ethical principles, and rules for participation. Evaluators expect proposals to articulate how they contribute to the broader strategic goals of Horizon Europe, such as achieving scientific excellence, fostering innovation ecosystems, and addressing EU strategic priorities like digital transformation and strategic autonomy.
HE Specific Programme Decision 2021/764
highCouncil Decision (EU) 2021/764 establishes the Specific Programme implementing Horizon Europe, detailing the specific objectives, budget breakdown, and broad lines of activities for each pillar and cluster, including the 'Digital, Industry and Space' cluster. It provides more granular guidance on the types of research and innovation activities to be supported within the broader Horizon Europe framework.
Proposals should clearly align with the specific objectives and expected impacts outlined in the Specific Programme Decision for the relevant cluster (e.g., Cluster 4 'Digital, Industry and Space'). Evaluators will look for how the project contributes to the detailed work programme priorities and expected outcomes, demonstrating a clear understanding of the strategic direction for space research and innovation within Horizon Europe.
Union Secure Connectivity programme
mediumThe Union Secure Connectivity Programme, also known as IRIS² (Infrastructure for Resilience, Interconnectivity and Security by Satellite), is a new EU flagship initiative aiming to provide a sovereign, multi-orbital, and secure satellite communication infrastructure. It seeks to ensure secure connectivity for governmental users and critical infrastructures, as well as to provide commercial services to foster innovation and digital inclusion across Europe and beyond. The programme is designed to enhance Europe's strategic autonomy and resilience in communication.
Proposals should clearly articulate how their work contributes to the objectives of the Union Secure Connectivity programme (IRIS²). Evaluators will look for projects that address the technological challenges, develop key components, or propose innovative applications that support the deployment and operation of a secure, sovereign, and multi-orbital satellite communication infrastructure. Emphasis should be placed on contributions to secure governmental communications, resilience, and the development of competitive commercial services, aligning with the programme's goals of strategic autonomy and digital inclusion.
InvestEU programme
mediumThe InvestEU Programme is an EU initiative designed to boost investment, innovation, and job creation across the European Union for the 2021-2027 period. It provides an EU budget guarantee to mobilise public and private investment, supporting policy priorities such as the green and digital transitions, strategic European industries, and social investment. InvestEU aims to address market failures and investment gaps by making financing more accessible for businesses, particularly SMEs, and for infrastructure projects.
While InvestEU is primarily a financing instrument, proposals referencing it should demonstrate how their research and innovation activities could lead to commercially viable solutions or technologies that attract significant follow-up investment. Evaluators might look for a clear pathway to market, potential for scaling up, and a strong business case that could eventually benefit from InvestEU support, particularly if the project addresses strategic EU priorities like digital transformation or strengthening European industrial competitiveness. The link is often indirect, focusing on the potential for future economic impact and investment attraction.
EU Space Act
mediumThe EU Space Act is a proposed legislative framework aimed at enhancing the safety, security, and sustainability of space activities within the European Union. It seeks to establish common rules for space traffic management, debris mitigation, and the authorization and supervision of space activities by Member States. The Act's objective is to ensure a level playing field for European space actors, promote responsible behavior in space, and protect critical space infrastructure, thereby contributing to the long-term sustainability of outer space.
Proposals should demonstrate an awareness of the principles and objectives underpinning the proposed EU Space Act, particularly concerning the safety, security, and sustainability of space operations. Evaluators will look for projects that incorporate best practices for space debris mitigation, responsible design of space systems, and contribute to technologies or services that enhance space situational awareness or space traffic management. While the Act is still under development, proposals should show foresight in aligning with its anticipated regulatory framework and promoting sustainable space practices.
1. Admissibility conditions — Proposal page limit and layout The page limit of the application is 80 pages. described in Annex A and Annex E of the Horizon Europe Work Programme General Annexes. Proposal page limits and layout: described in Part B of the Application Form available in the Submission System.
2. Eligible Countries — described in Annex B of the Work Programme General Annexes. A number of non-EU/non-Associated Countries that are not automatically eligible for funding have made specific provisions for making funding available for their participants in Horizon Europe projects. See the information in the Horizon Europe Programme Guide .
3. Other Eligibility Conditions — If projects use satellite-based earth observation, positioning, navigation and/or related timing data and services, beneficiaries must make use of Copernicus and/or Galileo/EGNOS (other data and services may additionally be used). In order to achieve the expected outcomes, and safeguard the Union’s strategic assets, interests, autonomy, or security, participation is limited to legal entities established in Member States, Norway and Iceland. Proposals including entities established in countries outside the scope specified in the call/topic/action will be ineligible. For the duly justified and exceptional reasons listed in the paragraph above, in order to guarantee the protection of the strategic interests of the Union and its Member States, entities established in an eligible country listed above, but which are directly or indirectly controlled by a non-eligible country or by a non-eligible country entity, may not participate in the action unless it can be demonstrated, by means of guarantees positively assessed by their eligible country of establishment, that their participation to the action would not negatively impact the Union’s strategic assets, interests, autonomy, or security. Entities assessed as high-risk suppliers of mobile network communication equipment within the meaning of ‘restrictions for the protection of European communication networks’ (or entities fully or partially owned or controlled by a high-risk supplier) cannot submit guarantees.[[The guarantees shall in particular substantiate that, for the purpose of the action, measures are in place to ensure that: a) control over the applicant legal entity is not exercised in a manner that retrains or restricts its ability to carry out the action and to deliver results, that imposes restrictions concerning its infrastructure, facilities, assets, resources, intellectual property or know-how needed for the purpose of the action, or that undermines its capabilities and standards necessary to carry out the action; b) access by a non-eligible country or by a non-eligible country entity to sensitive information relating to the action is prevented; and the employees or other persons involved in the action have a national security clearance issued by an eligible country, where appropriate; c) ownership of the intellectual property arising from, and the results of, the action remain within the recipient during and after completion of the action, are not subject to control or restrictions by non-eligible countries or non-eligible country entity, and are not exported outside the eligible countries, nor is access to them from outside the eligible countries granted, without the approval of the eligible country in which the legal entity is established. ]] described in Annex B of the Work Programme General Annexes.
4. Financial and operational capacity and exclusion — described in Annex C of the Work Programme General Annexes.
5a. Evaluation and award: Award criteria, scoring and thresholds — The evaluation committee will be composed partially by representatives of EU institutions. are described in Annex D of the Work Programme General Annexes.
5b. Evaluation and award: Submission and evaluation processes — are described in Annex F of the Work Programme General Annexes and the Online Manual .
5c. Evaluation and award: Indicative timeline for evaluation and grant agreement — described in Annex F of the Work Programme General Annexes.
6. Legal and financial set-up of the grants — described in Annex G of the Work Programme General Annexes.
described in the specific topic of the Work Programme. Some activities resulting from this topic may involve using classified background and/or producing of security sensitive results (EUCI and SEN). Please refer to the related provisions in section B Security — EU classified and sensitive information of the General Annexes. Call documents Technical Guidance Document for the expected technology developments The Technical Guidance Document is provided to clarify technological expectations for the topic.
Application form templates — the application form specific to this call is available in the Submission System Standard application form (HE RIA, IA) Evaluation form templates — will be used with the necessary adaptations Standard evaluation form (HE RIA, IA) Guidance HE Programme Guide Model Grant Agreements (MGA) HE MGA Declaration of ownership and control A compulsory questionnaire on the declaration of ownership and control is to be filled by all project participants as part of the application. All declarations must be assembled by the coordinator and uploaded in a single file in the portal submission system. For additional information on the assessment of ownership and control process and on the guarantees please consult the draft guidance for participation in restricted calls .
HE Main Work Programme 2026-2027 – 1. General Introduction HE Main Work Programme 2026-2027 – 7. Digital, Industry and Space HE Main Work Programme 2026-2027 – 15. General Annexes HE Programme Guide HE Framework Programme 2021/695 HE Specific Programme Decision 2021/764 EU Financial Regulation 2024/2509 Decision authorising the use of lump sum contributions under the Horizon Europe Programme Rules for Legal Entity Validation, LEAR Appointment and Financial Capacity Assessment EU Grants AGA — Annotated Model Grant Agreement Funding & Tenders Portal Online Manual Funding & Tenders Portal Terms and Conditions Funding & Tenders Portal Privacy Statement
Evaluators will primarily focus on the project's contribution to EU strategic autonomy and non-dependence in space EEE components, the technical feasibility and innovation of the irradiation test facility, and the realism of the market deployment and commercialization plan. Strong emphasis will be placed on the detailed analysis of the supply chain to ensure freedom from non-EU export restrictions and the facility's relevance for key EU space missions.
Everything the call asks for, seen from the call's point of view. Each line shows what answers it, and which partner carries it.
This matrix lists everything the call asks for: outcomes, impacts, scope, the requirements buried in the call text, and policy alignment. Sign up free and GrantForge tracks each line against the concept you build.
| Requirement | Covered by | Carried | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scope activities | |||
| SC1The description of the technology that will be used for providing the irradiation beam and high-level breakdown of the supply chain relevant for the whole test facility. Applicants should demonstrate that the supply chain and final test facility are free of any legal export restrictions or limitations, such as those established in the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) or equivalent instruments applicable in other non-EU jurisdictions. Applicants shall also report, in a dedicated subsection, if and which part of the supply chain is affected by non-EU export controls such as the Export Administration regulation (EAR) i.e. EAR99. | · | · | Sign up to track |
| SC2Analysing and describing, in detail , the full supply chain, each entity and its role in the supply chain, level of criticality and, if relevant, identify dependencies from outside EU; | · | · | Sign up to track |
| SC3Describing the technical roadmap and a business plan for commercialization (e.g. open access of the facility to the external space stakeholders) and future possible upgrades with accurate understanding of applications needs and relevance for EU space missions. | · | · | Sign up to track |
| SC4Undertaking a comprehensive literature review of the relevant high and very high energy radiation test facilities at global level reporting the state-of-the-art and highlighting potential gaps between current EU solutions and competition from outside EU. | · | · | Sign up to track |
| Expected outcomes | |||
| EO1Reinforcing EU strategic autonomy by reducing non-EU dependencies on critical space EEE components across their entire supply chain, including radiation testing facilities; | · | · | Sign up to track |
| EO2Providing unrestricted access to critical space EEE components and testing facilities relevant for EU space missions (Galileo, EGNOS, Copernicus, IRIS 2 and EU pilot missions on In-Orbit Space Operations and Quantum Gravimetry); | · | · | Sign up to track |
| EO3Developing or regaining capacity to operate independently in space by developing resilient space EEE components and testing facilities supply chains, relying on EU supply chains and/or trustable and reliable supply chains not affected by non-EU export restrictions; | · | · | Sign up to track |
| EO4Enhancing competitiveness by developing products and capabilities reaching equivalent or superior performance level than those from outside the EU and compete at worldwide level. | · | · | Sign up to track |
| Other requirements | |||
| No other requirements in this call. | |||
| Expected impacts | |||
| EI1Accessing Space, i.e. the ability to transport satellites, cargo, and humans into space; build and launch the required vehicles, including re-usable systems; and operate the related facilities and services. | · | · | Sign up to track |
| EI2Using Space on Earth, i.e. the ability to provide space-based secure communication, navigation and Earth observation services and applications, including through the EU Space flagships Galileo, Copernicus and IRIS 2. | · | · | Sign up to track |
| EI3Monitoring Space, i.e. the ability to detect, track and anticipate the trajectory of spacecraft, Near-Earth objects, and space debris during their full lifetime; to share data with relevant stakeholders; and to provide solutions for safe international space traffic management. It also includes the tracking and anticipation of other impacts on the space environment, such as Space weather events. | · | · | Sign up to track |
| EI4Acting in Space, i.e. the ability to inspect, rendezvous and dock, grasp, repair, refuel, reconfigure, build, assemble and disassemble, reuse/recycle, relocate, remove and transport operational, non-operational, and other objects in space, including platforms or larger structures. | · | · | Sign up to track |
| EI5Exploring Space, i.e. the ability to conduct high profile space exploration activities, perform excellent science and exploit space data to increase our knowledge about the Universe and celestial bodies, with a view to their exploration for scientific and socio-economic benefits. | · | · | Sign up to track |
| EI6Boosting Space, i.e. the ability to sustain the above strategic capabilities through fostering the competitiveness of the EU space sector; improving education and developing the required skills; accelerating the pace of innovation; supporting EU non-dependency on critical technologies; and strengthening international cooperation. | · | · | Sign up to track |
| EI7Reducing non-EU dependencies on critical space technologies across their whole supply chain from advanced materials to components, equipment, and sub-systems. | · | · | Sign up to track |
| EI8Providing unrestricted access to advanced space technologies relevant for EU space missions and programme components. | · | · | Sign up to track |
| EI9Developing or regaining capacity to operate independently in space by developing resilient space technologies supply chains, relying on EU supply chains and/or trustable and reliable supply chains not affected by non-EU export restrictions. | · | · | Sign up to track |
| EI10Enhancing competitiveness by developing products and capabilities reaching equivalent or superior performance level than those from outside the EU and compete at worldwide level. | · | · | Sign up to track |
| EI11Opening new opportunities for manufacturers by reducing dependency on export restricted technologies. | · | · | Sign up to track |
| Underlying policies | |||
| POL1eu space programmeThe EU Space Programme is the overarching framework for all EU space activities, consolidating existing and new space initiatives under a single programme for the 2021-2027 period. It aims to ensure the continuity and evolution of flagship programmes like Galileo (navigation), Copernicus (Earth observation), and EGNOS (satellite-based augmentation system), while also introducing new components like Governmental Satellite Communications (GOVSATCOM) and Space Situational Awareness (SSA). Its primary goal is to strengthen the EU's autonomy, resilience, and leadership in space, providing high-quality, secure, and cost-effective space-derived data and services to citizens and businesses. | · | · | Sign up to track |
| POL2horizon europe regulationThe Horizon Europe Regulation (Regulation (EU) 2021/695) establishes the legal framework for the EU's flagship research and innovation programme for the 2021-2027 period. It defines the programme's objectives, structure (Pillars, Missions, Partnerships), funding instruments, and rules for participation. Horizon Europe aims to strengthen the EU's scientific and technological bases, foster competitiveness, deliver on EU strategic priorities like the green and digital transitions, and contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. | · | · | Sign up to track |
| POL3eu financial regulation 2024/2509This regulation governs the financial management of EU funds, ensuring transparency, accountability, and efficient use of resources. It is relevant for proposals involving large-scale piloting and validation of AI systems in healthcare. | · | · | Sign up to track |
| POL4he framework programme 2021/695Regulation (EU) 2021/695 establishes Horizon Europe as the EU's framework programme for research and innovation for the period 2021-2027. It defines the programme's overarching objectives, structure (Pillars, Missions, Partnerships), funding instruments, and general rules for participation, aiming to strengthen the EU's scientific and technological bases and foster competitiveness. | · | · | Sign up to track |
| POL5he specific programme decision 2021/764Council Decision (EU) 2021/764 establishes the Specific Programme implementing Horizon Europe, detailing the specific objectives, budget breakdown, and broad lines of activities for each pillar and cluster, including the 'Digital, Industry and Space' cluster. It provides more granular guidance on the types of research and innovation activities to be supported within the broader Horizon Europe framework. | · | · | Sign up to track |
The binding rules of this call. Items marked auto are verified by GrantForge from the call and the template. The others are yours to confirm.
LMIC entities auto-eligible
Low/middle-income country entities are automatically eligible for funding.
EU space data infrastructures
If the project uses satellite-based Earth observation, positioning, navigation or timing data/services, beneficiaries must use Copernicus and/or Galileo/EGNOS. Other sources may be added but not substitute EU infrastructures.
Civil applications only
Horizon Europe funds exclusively civil applications. Research with exclusive military or dual-use application is excluded.
Gender Equality Plan
Having a Gender Equality Plan (GEP) is an eligibility criterion for public bodies, research organisations, and higher education institutions from Member States and Associated Countries.
Open Science
Mandatory open access to peer-reviewed scientific publications and responsible management of research data (FAIR principles, DMP required).
Talk to the Grant Coach to build your concept. The steps below fill in as it takes shape, and your coverage tracks the progress. You can refine everything once your project workspace is created.
Step 1 of 2 · Build your concept
The problems this call frames, and who they affect. Your concept and plan address them.
The EU currently faces significant dependencies on non-EU jurisdictions for critical high and very high energy irradiation testing facilities for space EEE components, leading to potential supply chain vulnerabilities and strategic risks.
EU space stakeholders often face restricted, limited, or unreliable access to advanced high and very high energy irradiation test facilities, hindering the development and qualification of critical components for EU space missions.
The EU space sector's competitiveness is challenged by a lack of sovereign, state-of-the-art high and very high energy irradiation testing capabilities that can match or exceed those available outside the EU.
Manufacturers of Electronic, Electrical, and Electromechanical (EEE) components for space applications within the EU, who require radiation testing services.
Companies and organizations responsible for integrating EEE components into larger space systems and satellites for EU missions.
European and national space agencies, as well as operators of key EU space flagships (e.g., Galileo, Copernicus, IRIS²), who depend on reliable and sovereign testing capabilities.
Researchers and academics specializing in radiation effects on materials and components, who will benefit from access to advanced testing facilities and data for scientific advancement.
European Commission, national governments, and regulatory bodies involved in shaping EU space policy, strategic autonomy, and industrial competitiveness.
Step 2 of 2 · Build your concept
The long-term impacts your project should drive — this shapes the objectives next.
The project will significantly reduce the EU's reliance on non-EU entities for critical space EEE component radiation testing, thereby strengthening the Union's strategic autonomy and security in space.
The project will provide EU space stakeholders with unrestricted, reliable, and timely access to a state-of-the-art irradiation test facility, crucial for the development and qualification of components for flagship EU space missions.
By providing advanced, sovereign testing capabilities, the project will enable EU manufacturers to develop products and capabilities that are equivalent or superior to non-EU offerings, boosting the competitiveness and innovation capacity of the EU space sector globally.
The project will contribute to developing resilient space EEE component supply chains, relying on EU sources and/or trustable, reliable supply chains not affected by non-EU export restrictions, reducing overall vulnerability.