ESA's ground-based facilities programme is a highly valuable low-cost tool allowing scientists to push forward their understanding of basic science aspects, preparing for more complex spaceflight experiments and advancing human and biological aspects for exploration. Through this continuously-open research announcement, scientists are invited to apply with experiment proposals that use the capabilities of the facilities in this programme.
ESA’s “Science in Space Environment” (SciSpacE) programme – which is part of ESA’s overall European Exploration Envelope (E3P) programme – includes scientific activities on research platforms such as ground-based space analogues (e.g. bedrest studies, research on Antarctic stations, radiation facilities, drop tower, sounding rockets, parabolic flights), as well as an ambitious research programme on-board the International Space Station (ISS). The SciSpacE programme activities cover science in the domains of Human Research, Biology (including Astrobiology) and Physical Sciences, with an emphasis on scientific excellence, space research- and exploration-relevance, innovation and timely delivery.
Its research results will advance Europe’s knowledge base, support its economy and help prepare future human and robotic space exploration. In addition to gaining fundamental knowledge, the research carried out within ESA’s SciSpacE programme is helping to deliver solutions to problems back on Earth, e.g. developing innovative materials to manufacture products, removing pollutants from water, improving engine efficiency, testing new medical techniques and support equipment for the elderly and disabled.