European Platform for Robotic In-orbit Modular Experimentationbroad
EPRIME · Horizon Europe grant · 2026-06-01–2028-09-30
EC contribution
Total cost
Beneficiaries
About the data
Source: CORDIS (official EU open data), Horizon Europe. Framework HORIZON · call HORIZON-CL4-2025-02 · scheme HORIZON-RIA · topic HORIZON-CL4-2025-02-SPACE-22. CORDIS record →
Objective
The EPRIME project proposes the development of a modular, scalable, and autonomous European platform in Low Earth Orbit (LEO), designed to secure Europe’s strategic autonomy and leadership in space operations after the International Space Station era. The main objectives are to provide sovereign infrastructure for in-orbit logistics, servicing, refuelling (chemical and electric), and technology demonstration, while enabling rapid integration of scientific, institutional, and commercial payloads.EPRIME will achieve these objectives through a flexible, modular architecture that supports progressive growth and integration of new capabilities. Key innovations include interfaces for logistics and servicer vehicles, advanced robotic systems for on-orbit assembly and servicing, and open standards for interoperability with EU flagship infrastructures such as Galileo and IRIS². The project will validate core technologies—such as multi-propellant refuelling, walkable robotic manipulators, and autonomous rendezvous and docking—progressing them from TRL 4–6 to TRL 6–7.A robust methodology integrates interdisciplinary expertise, open science practices, and a comprehensive data management plan. The consortium brings together leading European industry, SMEs, and research organisations to ensure technical excellence and broad impact. The project’s outcomes will strengthen Europe’s industrial competitiveness, foster a sustainable in-orbit services market, and support a resilient, independent European presence in space. Dissemination, exploitation, and communication measures are planned to maximise impact and ensure uptake by target groups including academia, industry, and public stakeholders.
Beneficiaries (18)
| Organisation | Country | Role | EC contribution | SME |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| THE EXPLORATION COMPANY GMBH | DE | coordinator | €5,130,404 | Yes |
| AIRBUS DEFENCE AND SPACE SAS | FR | participant | €3,751,000 | |
| AIRBUS DEFENCE AND SPACE GMBH | DE | participant | €3,095,825 | |
| SPACE APPLICATIONS SERVICES NV | BE | participant | €1,900,000 | Yes |
| VIMOTEK AB | SE | participant | €600,000 | Yes |
| AVS ADDED VALUE INDUSTRIAL ENGINEERING SOLUTIONS SLU | ES | participant | €580,000 | Yes |
| MAGELLIUM SAS | FR | participant | €562,546 | Yes |
| GMV AEROSPACE AND DEFENCE SA | ES | participant | €420,000 | |
| LEONARDO - SOCIETA PER AZIONI | IT | participant | €399,846 | |
| NEDERLANDSE ORGANISATIE VOOR TOEGEPAST NATUURWETENSCHAPPELIJK ONDERZOEK TNO | NL | participant | €300,504 | |
| NOVASPACE GMBH | DE | participant | €270,055 | Yes |
| YARDSTICK ROBOTICS GMBH | DE | participant | €139,832 | |
| CONTROL DATA SYSTEMS SRL | RO | participant | €100,000 | |
| D-ORBIT SPA | IT | participant | €100,000 | |
| TELESPAZIO FRANCE SAS | FR | participant | €99,988 | |
| HISPASAT SA | ES | participant | €50,000 | |
| The Exploration Company SAS | FR | thirdParty | €0 | Yes |
| The Exploration Company Srl | IT | thirdParty | €0 |
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