PROJECT DESCRIPTION
smartCASE
The smartCASE project is laying the foundations for a new satAPP-based space economy by developing modular, interoperable building blocks for future spacecraft. The project aims to design, standardise and demonstrate satAPPs – highly versatile, self-contained and intelligent satellite modules that can be seamlessly integrated into a common modular architecture. In parallel, smartCASE is establishing the standards, tools and methodologies needed to support the development, integration and demonstration of satAPPs within the ISOS Pilot Mission and future in-orbit servicing and manufacturing applications.
Introducing the Future Space Ecosystem and our Strategic Capacity to Act in Space
The smartCASE project is at the forefront of developing interoperable satellite components for in-space services.
What does
smartCASE stand for?
smartCASE stands for "smart Configurable Adaptive Spacecraft and Spacecraft Extensions".
What is the timeframe of the project?
1 June 2026 -
30 November 2028
What is the total funding?
The EU contribution
accounts for € 2 495 640,00
(100% funding).
What is the grant agreement number?
Grant agreement ID:
101296314
(Funded under Digital,
Industry and Space)
Project description
To accelerate innovation and reduce development costs, smartCASE combines physical and virtual satAPPs with Digital Twin technology. This hybrid approach enables scalable testing, rapid system configuration and greater autonomy while reducing hardware and software dependencies. By promoting flexible, reusable spacecraft architectures, the project supports Europe's ambition to strengthen its leadership in sustainable space infrastructure and enable a competitive market for modular space systems.
smartCASE will develop and demonstrate three hardware satAPPs at TRL 6: an AODS sensor suite (smartNAVIGATOR), a gyroscopic attitude control module (smartMOTION) and an electric propulsion module (smartPROPULSION). Integrated into an advanced Attitude and Orbit Control System (AOCS), these modules will be validated during the three phases of the ISOS Pilot Mission. In addition, the project will develop three virtual satAPPs – electric power, TT&C and an inspection camera – which will complement the physical modules to create smartOBSERVER, the first fully modular satAPP-based satellite for Space Domain Awareness. smartOBSERVER will be demonstrated in a hybrid physical–virtual environment, showcasing the flexibility and scalability of the satAPP concept.
ISOS4I
The project proposal smartCASE submitted under the Horizon Europe (HORIZON) call HORIZON-CL4-2025-02-SPACE-24 — ISOS Pilot Mission Detailed Design – satAPPs component was recognised as a high-quality project proposal in a highly competitive evaluation process and contributes to the Strategic Technologies for Euope Platform (STEP) objectives, following evaluation by an international panel of independent experts.
The STEP (Sovereignty) Seal is a quality label awarded by the European Commission aimed at facilitating access to funding opportunities under other Union programmes covered by STEP.
For further information, visit https://strategic-technologies.europa.eu.