[European Commission](https://commission.europa.eu/index_en)

September 3, 2026 (Submission deadline, single-stage)

€1,500,000–€2,500,000 per project; 2 grants expected; lump sum funding

Supports advanced analysis and exploitation of space mission data to drive European scientific breakthroughs, collaboration, and research tool development.

--- ## Description This funding opportunity supports projects focused on the scientific analysis and exploitation of data from space missions, particularly in astronomy, astrophysics, cosmology, heliophysics, and deep space or solar system exploration. The call encourages the use of innovative data processing approaches—including artificial intelligence, advanced statistical methods, and multidimensional data fusion—to maximize the scientific return from European and international space missions, including CubeSat and small satellite missions. Projects should aim to deliver high-level data products, foster European and international collaboration, and prepare the groundwork for future missions. Enhanced data products suitable for inclusion in the ESA Space Science Archives are especially encouraged. --- ## Due Dates - September 3, 2026: Submission deadline (single-stage, full application) --- ## Funding Amount - Total indicative budget for this topic: €3,920,000 - Expected contribution per project: €1,500,000–€2,500,000 - Number of grants expected: 2 - Funding is provided as a lump sum under Horizon Europe rules. --- ## Eligibility - Open to legal entities (universities, research organizations, businesses, etc.) established in EU Member States or Horizon Europe Associated Countries. - Entities from certain non-EU/non-Associated Countries may participate if they secure their own funding; see [Annex B of the Work Programme General Annexes](https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/docs/2021-2027/horizon/wp-call/2026-2027/wp-15-general-annexes_horizon-2026-2027_en.pdf). - Proposals must focus on scientific/exploration missions (including CubeSat and small satellite missions) and exclude Earth observing missions. - Collaboration between European and international teams is encouraged. - Integration of the gender dimension should be addressed if relevant. --- ## Application Process - Single-stage application: submit a full proposal by the deadline. - Proposals must follow the layout and page limits described in [Part B of the Application Form](https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/docs/2021-2027/horizon/temp-form/af/af_he-ria-ia_en.pdf). - Submission via the [EU Funding & Tenders Portal](https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/portal/screen/opportunities/topic-details/HORIZON-CL4-2026-SPACE-03-61?isExactMatch=true&status=31094501,31094502&order=DESC&pageNumber=7&pageSize=50&sortBy=startDate). - Evaluation criteria, award process, and legal/financial requirements are detailed in the [General Annexes](https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/docs/2021-2027/horizon/wp-call/2026-2027/wp-15-general-annexes_horizon-2026-2027_en.pdf). - Proposals will be evaluated on excellence, impact, and quality/efficiency of implementation. --- ## Additional Information - Projects should add scientific value through advanced data analysis, leading to scientific publications, new research tools, and high-level data products. - International cooperation (especially with countries active in space exploration/science) is encouraged. - Enhanced data products should, where possible, be suitable for ESA Space Science Archives. - For further details, consult the [Horizon Europe Programme Guide](https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/docs/2021-2027/horizon/guidance/programme-guide_horizon_en.pdf). --- ## External Links - [Call Topic & Submission Portal](https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/portal/screen/opportunities/topic-details/HORIZON-CL4-2026-SPACE-03-61?isExactMatch=true&status=31094501,31094502&order=DESC&pageNumber=7&pageSize=50&sortBy=startDate) - [Horizon Europe Work Programme General Annexes](https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/docs/2021-2027/horizon/wp-call/2026-2027/wp-15-general-annexes_horizon-2026-2027_en.pdf) - [Horizon Europe Programme Guide](https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/docs/2021-2027/horizon/guidance/programme-guide_horizon_en.pdf) - [Online Manual for Applicants](https://webgate.ec.europa.eu/funding-tenders-opportunities/display/OM/Online+Manual) --- ## Contact Information | Contact Type | Details | |-----------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Funder Main Page | [European Commission](https://commission.europa.eu/index_en) | | General Enquiries | [Contact the European Commission](https://commission.europa.eu/about-european-commission/contact_en) | | Research Enquiry Service | [Research Enquiry Service](https://research-and-innovation.ec.europa.eu/contact-us/research-enquiry-service_en) | | National Contact Points | [Find your NCP](https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/portal/screen/support/ncp) | | IT Helpdesk | [Funding & Tenders Portal IT Helpdesk](https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/portal/screen/support/helpdesks/contact-form) | | Phone (switchboard) | +32 2 299 11 11 |

Scientific analysis and exploitation of space data - European Commission

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