The In-Space Proof-of-Concepts (InSPoC) programme is moving fast, with key milestones across rendezvous, refilling, intelligence, and logistics.
These developments are shaping the technologies that will power Odyssey – Europe’s first orbital refilling depot – and build the backbone of Europe’s in-space transportation ecosystem.
Status of In-Space Proof-of-Concepts & Odyssey
Develops operational interfaces for docking, refilling, and guidance, navigation and control
- Minimum viable products (MVPs) are being developed for guidance, navigation, control, docking and refilling interfaces, with updates at the next In-Space Transportation Club session at the end of 2025
- In-orbit demonstration targeted for 2028
Develops technology and interfaces for in-orbit cryogenic propellant management and refilling
- Five parallel contracts for the Preparation Phase are nearing completion
- The next phase will be procured in restricted competition, bu will remain open to new subcontractors. It is expected to launch after CM25 in early 2026.
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- Seven parallel contracts for the Ideation Phase have been completed
- The Preparation Phase (Phase 0/A) will be procured in open competition, open to parallel contracts. It is expected to launch after CM25, towards the end of 2025 or early 2026.
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InSPoC-4 aims to scale the ecosystem with:
- containerisation of payloads
- handling and unloading cargo shipments
- in-orbit maintenance of space assets
- parking orbit management
- advanced space logistics operations
The InSPoC-4 Call for Ideas for the Ideation Phase has opened.
The Odyssey Call for Ideas is open until 16 September 2025.
Organisations are invited to propose concepts, technologies, and use-cases that will help define Odyssey’s objectives and roadmap. Submissions will support ESA’s planning for the upcoming preparation phase and a future Invitation to Tender.
Last updated: 25 November 2025
In-Space Transportation Club
A network shaping the future
The In-Space Transportation Club is a coordination platform that brings together European national agencies, in-space transportation providers, technology suppliers, investors, and other stakeholders.
- Over 450 active members, 175+ organisations, 20+ countries
- Two sessions are held each year
- Industry shares needs, feedback, and priorities
- ESA shares InSPoC results and roadmaps
- Focus on alignment and enabling interfaces
The Club plays a central role in steering European in-space transportation capabilities. The next session will take place at the end of 2025.
“With InSPoC we are not just developing technology – we are shaping the market itself. We are putting European industry front and centre in our vision for space logistics, supporting a unique ecosystem of interoperable technologies that benefit all.”
– Yann Tincelin, InSPoC Project Engineer
InSPoC Development Phases
During this phase, ecosystem and prospective analyses are conducted. This defines the technological and enabling capability needs for the ecosystem, and guides the development of InSPoC’s roadmap. Perspectives from stakeholders are gathered in workshops held for alignment and the initial concept is developed.
Initial concepts, building blocks and operational guidelines are consolidated and refined at this stage. Workshops gather consortia with a collaborative design approach to promote efficient and interoperable interface design.
In this phase, preliminary designs are elaborated and tested. Workshops and club sessions gather key stakeholders to ensure harmonious designs, present project perspectives and outcomes, and collect stakeholder feedback and needs.
During this phase, the final design, implementation and in-orbit demonstration take place.
