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CORDIS

A novel space return capsule for life sciences microgravity experiments

Project description

Reusable system for safe spacecrafts re-entry

A key challenge in the space industry is ensuring the safe and efficient re-entry of spacecraft and cargo into Earth’s atmosphere. Current technologies often fail due to issues with velocity, heat protection, and excess mass, leading to the destruction of spacecraft upon re-entry. The EIC-funded Phoenix 2 project will address these challenges by developing a reusable, modular inflatable aerodynamic decelerator (IAD) with a high-velocity parachute and heat shield. This system aims to safely and cost-effectively recover cargo from space, particularly biomedical and pharmaceutical materials. The project will focus on testing, validation with partners, manufacturing processes, and developing a commercialisation strategy.

Objective

A persisting challenge in the space industry is securing efficient and safe re-entry of spacecraft and cargo into the atmosphere and return to Earth. Existing technologies fail to solve for factors such as velocity, protection from hot air or plasma, and excessive mass, resulting in spacecraft (or cargo) burning up in the atmosphere. Amongst other factors, this has severely slowed down scientific space research. To address this major challenge, we are developing a reusable, modular, and scalable Inflatable Aerodynamic Decelerator (IAD) which consists of a high-velocity parachute and heatshield that recovers and brings back the space cargo (free-flying experiments and experimental equipment from space stations, especially biomedical and pharma material) safely and cost-effectively. With EIC funding, we aim to complete Phoenix 2 ’s development & testing, carry out validation with key partners, define manufacturing, and establish our commercialization strategy.

Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)

Keywords

Programme(s)

Topic(s)

Funding Scheme

HORIZON-EIC-ACC - HORIZON EIC Accelerator

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Call for proposal

(opens in new window) HORIZON-EIC-2024-ACCELERATOR-02

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Coordinator

ATMOS SPACE CARGO GMBH
Net EU contribution
€ 2 499 999,00
Address
IM GEWERBEGEBIET 3
77839 LICHTENAU
Germany
SME
Yes
Region
Baden-Württemberg Karlsruhe Rastatt
Activity type
Private for-profit entities (excluding Higher or Secondary Education Establishments)
Links
Total cost
No data