Preparation
The Preparation element supports new space missions and programmes; it conceives a first coherent outline via the Concurrent Design Facility then supports industrial pre-phase A and phase A studies
Practically all ESA spacecraft and projects are born and matured via the Preparation element, which allows ESA to identify the best designs in an unconstrained manner.
Being part of ESA’s Basic Activities, Preparation's fully open and competitive approach allows ESA to identify and mature the best concepts for future missions. The outcome provides ESA Member States the basis for informed programmatic decisions, both within the optional programmes as well as within the science programmes.
Preparation studies are exploratory by nature. Preserving their outcomes is vital for ensuring that the knowledge and experience gained is maximised and built upon in future work. This is ensured through the Nebula Library, which provides access to the final deliverables of studies conducted by the Preparation element for and with all ESA directorates.
How it works
Most of the activities undertaken in the frame of the Preparation element are prepared with the help of the Concurrent Design Facility, establishing mission feasibility, costs and user requirements before issuing open competitive tenders for industry. ESA typically pursues and matures early mission phases with industry through parallel, complementary studies. Implementing ESA’s Agenda 2025 and Technology Strategy, these activities rely increasingly on Model Based System Engineering for reduced development time and increased efficiency. Preparation studies determine mission-critical technology development needs, which are then injected into the Technology Development element of ESA's Basic Activities.
Preparation activities
MISSION STUDIES:
Pre-phase A, feasibility studies or system studies to support the development of future missions. These are typically performed as parallel studies, i.e. two or three industry consortia work independently on the same subject to provide ESA with a wide range of possible solutions and concepts.