ERA Chair - SPACE – Heyrovsky Chair of Space Science

Project Information

SPACE

Grant agreement ID: 101186661

DOI

10.3030/101186661

EC signature date 7 October 2024

Start date 1 January 2025

End date 31 December 2029

Funded under

• Widening participation and spreading excellence

Total cost

No data

EU contribution

€ 2 486 137,50

Coordinated by

Heyrovskeho ustav AV CR, v. v. i.
Czechia

Periodic Reporting for period 1 - SPACE (ERA Chair - SPACE – Heyrovsky Chair of Space Science)

Reporting period: 2025-01-01 to 2026-03-31

Summary of the context and overall objectives of the project

The ERA Chair project aims to enhance the integration of the J. Heyrovsky Institute of the Academy of Sciences into the European research landscape. Despite the institute's recognized excellence in many areas of Physical Chemistry research within Europe, international peer reviews during the past 5 years, identified untapped potential in the area of mass spectrometry technology development and astrochemistry and identified weaknesses in key ERA priority areas. To strengthen its international presence and performance, the institute's directors have proposed structural changes emphasizing better utilization of research resources and personnel, increased engagement with international activities, and securing prestigious EU funding, including ERC grants. The institute seeks to strengthen its role as a research leader in the Czech Republic by participating in European networks and coordinating international projects, supported by proactive human resource policies and staff internationalization efforts. The leadership of a new ERA Chair holder in the Department of Space Chemistry and Technology and the creation of a permanent and excellent research group in the chosen scientific field will ensure excellence, visibility, and better integration in the European Research Area, as well as fostering competitiveness in research funding and promoting institutional reforms aligned with ERA priorities. These initiatives, backed by significant political and financial support from management, alongside collaborative projects, are intended to foster greater openness, international collaboration, and ultimately enhance the scientific performance and appeal of the J. Heyrovsky Institute.

Work performed from the beginning of the project to the end of the period covered by the report and main results achieved so far

The ERA-Chair project at the Heyrovský Institute of Physical Chemistry has strengthened research capacity in space-related analytical chemistry through advanced experimental work and international collaboration. Activities focused on the application of high-resolution mass spectrometry, and the development of next-generation mass spectrometry instruments. A key achievement was the delivery and deployment of the SELINA dust accelerator to NASA’s Dust Accelerator Laboratory in Boulder (CO, USA), enabling realistic simulations of ice-particle impacts. The team also contributes to the NASA Europa Clipper mission by supporting data interpretation through laboratory experiments. In parallel, compact Orbitrap-based mass spectrometers are being developed for future space missions. These achievements significantly enhance the institute’s scientific capabilities and international positioning.

Progress beyond the state of the art and expected potential impact (including the socio-economic impact and the wider societal implications of the project so far)

The project advances the state of the art by enabling miniaturised, high-precision analytical instruments adapted for space environments. Novel Orbitrap-based systems and dust-impact simulation technologies open new possibilities for in situ chemical analysis in orbit and planetary exploration. To ensure uptake, further validation in space conditions, continued industry collaboration, and access to flight opportunities and funding are required. Strengthened IPR management and commercialisation pathways will support long-term impact. These results contribute to the development of flight-ready technologies and new applications in both space and terrestrial research.