ESA seeks space applications ideas in Very Low Earth Orbit

Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO), situated at an altitude between 100 and approximately 450 km (most commonly 250-350 km) is becoming increasingly attractive for both commercial and scientific endeavours. “It is easier to get to, requires fewer resources for communications, and allows for smaller payloads. For example, high resolution imaging can be achieved for Earth observation with smaller satellites and optics than in higher orbits”, says Luca Maresi, ESA lead engineer and campaign manager. 

VLEO is relatively safe from collisions with space debris, as objects naturally decay and re-enter Earth’s atmosphere at an accelerated rate due to residual drag. The more benign radiation environment makes it possible to use terrestrial grade, general purpose electronic components. VLEO may become attractive for a variety of low cost systems or constellations given the lower launch cost and higher versatility in launch options, such as micro-launchers and in-orbit transfer vehicles.

However, operating at such altitudes comes with challenges, such as shortened lifespans due to residual atmosphere, active orbit maintenance, surface erosion from atomic oxygen and short communication windows.

To better understand VLEO and the opportunities it offers, ESA is launching a Call for Ideas, looking for new, innovative ways to take advantage of the unique characteristics of VLEO and how to mitigate their challenges. The call is run by the Discovery element of ESA’s Basic Activities through the Open Space Innovation Platform (OSIP), together with the General Support Technology Programme (GSTP), Incubed, Artes and ScaleUp.

“The Call is driven by the vision of ESA’s Agenda 2025, which calls for Europe to step up its role in space and help create new markets for space technologies that facilitate access to space, reduce launch and operational costs and serve green agendas. Sustainability is a particularly important element for ESA activities, as outlined by the Space for a Green Future Accelerator.”, says Leopold Summerer, Head of ESA’s Advanced Concepts and Studies Office.

What are we looking for?

ESA is looking for innovative ideas for:

1. New missions and system concepts that take advantage of the unique properties of VLEO, or that improve operational aspects in comparison with higher orbits.
2. New technology development activities specific to VLEO, such as atmospheric-breathing propulsion, protective materials and coatings, navigation and control. Ideas related to re-entry and possible re-use of space assets are also encouraged.
3. Research activities specific to better understand VLEO challenges and opportunities.

In line with Agenda 2025, ideas for activities with commercialisation potential are especially encouraged, and ScaleUp is one of the implementation options offered to successful candidates.

All ideas should include a short and clear description of the innovative aspects of the system, technology or research proposed and the potential value of those innovations from different perspectives.

Send us your ideas

Submit your idea by 19 November, though early submissions are highly encouraged as they benefit from a longer discussion period. 

If it is novel and suitable for implementation within ESA, you will be invited to mature it into a proposal. The Campaign is open for submissions for participants registered in one of ESA Member States, Associate Member States or Cooperating States.

You can find all the details of the timing, process and conditions here.