Objective
The space industry is expanding rapidly, with innovative technologies evolving into viable services. Satellite telecommunications now offer global connectivity, improving daily life. While initial focus was on low Earth orbit (LEO) constellations, current strategies integrate both LEO and medium Earth orbit (MEO) systems. For example, the EU’s IRIS² initiative reflects this shift, aiming to deploy 290 multi-orbital satellites for secure internet access. Also further European programmes for Earth Observation, Science, Navigation and Exploration contribute to the growing demand for satellites.
To meet rising market demands and improve satellite deployment efficiency, high-efficiency and flexible solar cells are essential. These enable compact satellite designs, reducing launch mass and cost. Geopolitical uncertainties threaten supply chain stability, making reliance on non-European technologies risky. The HALLEY project addresses this by developing inverted metamorphic (IMM) solar cell technology within Europe, enhancing EU supply chain resilience, reducing dependence on critical raw materials, and strengthening strategic autonomy.
IMM cells offer AM0 efficiencies above 34%, using Umicore’s porous Germanium reusable substrates. Unlike traditional cells, IMM designs use Ge or GaAs as removable templates, resulting in thin, robust layers supported by carriers like Mo or Si. Ultra-thin Ag or Cu layers further improve flexibility and power-to-mass ratios.
Led by Umicore, the consortium includes Fraunhofer ISE, AZUR SPACE, EV Group, INTA, and LUP. HALLEY targets BOL efficiencies over 34% and EOL over 30%. Airbus, Thales and Aerospacelab have endorsed its market relevance. The technology promises improved performance, reduced weight, and adaptability for curved surfaces. By enabling European-based manufacturing and securing key components, HALLEY significantly enhances the EU’s space supply chain and positions Europe for next-generation satellite constellations.
Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)
CORDIS classifies projects with EuroSciVoc, a multilingual taxonomy of fields of science, through a semi-automatic process based on NLP techniques. See: The European Science Vocabulary.
CORDIS classifies projects with EuroSciVoc, a multilingual taxonomy of fields of science, through a semi-automatic process based on NLP techniques. See: The European Science Vocabulary.
- natural sciences computer and information sciences internet internet access
- engineering and technology mechanical engineering vehicle engineering aerospace engineering satellite technology
- engineering and technology environmental engineering mining and mineral processing
- natural sciences chemical sciences inorganic chemistry metalloids
- medical and health sciences medical biotechnology cells technologies
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Keywords
Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
Programme(s)
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
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HORIZON.2.4 - Digital, Industry and Space
MAIN PROGRAMME
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HORIZON.2.4.10 - Space, including Earth Observation
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Topic(s)
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Funding Scheme
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
HORIZON-RIA - HORIZON Research and Innovation Actions
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Call for proposal
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
(opens in new window) HORIZON-CL4-2025-02
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Net EU financial contribution. The sum of money that the participant receives, deducted by the EU contribution to its linked third party. It considers the distribution of the EU financial contribution between direct beneficiaries of the project and other types of participants, like third-party participants.
1000 Bruxelles / Brussel
Belgium
The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.