EROSS SC

The capacity to implement and conduct operations and services in space has become both a strategic priority and a policy driver, leading the European Commission (EC) to introduce the concept of In-Space Operations and Services (ISOS). To position Europe at the forefront of the New Space ecosystem, the EC has launched a roadmap built around a four-component Pilot Mission (ISOS for Infrastructure – ISOS4I), intended as the foundation for a future circular space ecosystem and economy. Within this framework, EROSS SC focuses on the servicing component and will finalise the detailed design of the space segment. The consortium – TASF (coordinator), DLR, SENER Aeroespacial, PIAP Space, Space Application Services, Kinetik Space, SINTEF, Magellium, TRASYS, ARRIB.ES and Tipik – has been jointly developing research and innovation dedicated to servicing since 2016. This includes preparation of the EROSS mission, the development of autonomous robotic and rendezvous technologies and the reinforcement of interoperability and standardisation. The EROSS mission centres on the deployment of a servicer spacecraft operating with a dedicated client satellite. It is structured in phases aligned with ISOS4I requirements: - performing a technological and operational capability demonstration - conducting a coordinated end-to-end demonstration of supplies relocation between ISOS4I components in 2030 - providing on-demand proto-services for commercial or governmental usage - engaging in any other servicing activities requested by private or public actors The EROSS SC project is conceived to ensure full alignment with ISOS4I’s strategic objectives by pioneering innovative operational solutions, including robotic and digital technologies. It draws on nearly a decade of collaboration among the same group of core partners engaged in ISOS-oriented initiatives and is designed to contribute directly to the European Union’s comprehensive ISOS strategy, spanning both civilian and defence domains.