In-Space Proof-of-Concepts (InSPoC)
InSPoC is FLPP’s programme for in-space transportation. It coordinates the maturation of the technologies needed to move, refill, and operate spacecraft in orbit, and forms the technical foundation for Odyssey, ESA’s orbital propellant depot.
InSPoC follows a strategic roadmap developed with input from industry, delegations, and future technology users. This roadmap identifies the core capabilities Europe needs to establish a sustainable orbital logistics infrastructure.
Enabling in-space logistics
InSPoC supports companies in developing the key capabilities required for orbital transport and servicing, including:
- In-orbit rendezvous and docking
- Refilling with cryogenic and non-cryogenic propellants
- Shared onboard intelligence
- Containerisation and advanced space logistics
These efforts lay the foundation for a flexible, interoperable orbital transportation network where reusable vehicles interact with standardised infrastructure, enabling multiple missions across a shared ecosystem.
By addressing these needs early, InSPoC helps resolve the infrastructure gap that has historically limited the emergence of orbital services.
Odyssey
Odyssey is ESA’s flagship programme for orbital refilling. This orbital propellant depot will support longer missions, reduce launch mass, and enable reusable logistics in orbit.
InSPoC defines and supports the development of the enabling technologies Odyssey requires.
InSPoC’s structured, step-by-step process allows critical technologies to be tested, de-risked, and validated in line with ESA’s long-term strategy.
Initiatives
InSPoC uses a strategic approach of incremental competitive stages, culminating in In-Orbit Demonstrations (IODs) to build and validate critical building blocks for Odyssey and future in-space transportation technologies. These technologies and interfaces are designed to be modular, scalable and compatible for easy integration across different spacecraft.
InSPoC-1
In-orbit rendezvous, docking, and non-cryogenic refilling
- Operational guidelines for rendezvous and GNC-related interfaces
- Interoperable interfaces for docking and refilling
- Communication interfaces between spacecraft
InSPoC-2
In-orbit cryogenic propellant storage and refilling
- Functional chains for in-space cryogenic propellant management and transfer
- In-orbit refilling interfaces
InSPoC-3
On-board and shared intelligence
- On-board autonomy, reconfigurability, longevity and safety
- Advanced in-space cooperation and shared intelligence
- Fleet management and space logistics operating systems
InSPoC-4
Containerisation and advanced in-space logistics
- Containerisation of payloads, handling and unloading cargo shipments
- In-orbit maintenance of space assets
- Parking orbit management and advanced space logistics operations
Programme 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.
Get Involved
As the future space transportation ecosystem evolves, the programme team have identified the technological needs for future space transportation and created a detailed roadmap to meet those needs.
Regular competitive opportunities help industry put forward and develop new technological ideas, crucial for the success of the programme.
In addition to the regular participation opportunities FLPP programmes offer, there are additional funding and participation opportunities for InSPoC, including:
- Restricted Competition ITT (open to the successful participants from the first stage)
- Restricted Competition ITT (open to the successful participants from the second stage)
- ESA’s In-Space Transportation Club, which is is open to all and helps inform future technological direction.
