Horizon Europe Programme

Standard Application Form (HE RIA, IA)

Project proposal – Technical description (Part B)

Version 1.0
22 Dec 2021
 HISTORY OF CHANGES
Publication
Version date Changes

1.0 22.12.2021 ▪ Initial version

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List of participants

Participant No. Participant organisation name Country

1 Polytechnic University of Catalonia (UPC) Spain

2 Manchester University (UM) England

3 Munich University (TUM) Germany

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1. Excellence

1.1. Objectives and ambition

The main objective of the proposed work is to provide a space-based infrastructure based on
Earth-observation payload able to process imaging data with low latency and high resolution.
Therefore, the latter will be tackled by the development of such a propulsion system (i.e. Air Breathing
Electric Propulsion system) capable of keeping satellites orbiting in VLEO for an extended period of
time becomes a high level objective. Addressing the latency issue, the research and implementation on
the inter-satellite and satellite-to-ground optical link takes relevance on the objectives list of the
proposal. In order to complete the space-based architecture, the mission analysis is concerned about
the design of a multi-layer orbit infrastructure to help fulfil both the latency and resolution topics.
Lastly, the implementation of the ground stations is not only a technological objective but also a
geological one, as the ground segment is expected to deploy antennas capable of collecting and
distributing data coming from space.

As a matter of fact, all the objectives of the project Obsearth can be related directly to the work
programme topic, going from development of key technologies for high performance
Earth-observation such as the ABEP or inter-satellite optical link, through quality of the delivered
information (i.e. imaging or data from space), to the actual communication system capable of
withstanding the increased demand for data rates and volumes of information.

All the topics of issue are measurable and verifiable, meaning the stage of development of the
technology or quality can be determined on all of them. For example, the resolution achieved by the
optical cameras is going to be a quantitative measurement, as well as the latency of the whole system
to process the imaging from the moment the payload gets it until the end user has it in its hands. All
the items being measurable is not a synonym of being easily achieved. However, all the technologies
and objectives are reachable in the short to medium term.

The ABEP and inter-satellite optical link are the key topics to have an eye on when it comes to
ambitious work. They both go beyond the state-of-the-art systems, putting Obsearth on the lead of
these cutting-edge technologies. Therefore, patents may be crucial when exploiting the knowledge and
methodologies. Nevertheless, they will be tackled later on in this section.

The most advanced system in terms of self-performance in a scale from idea to application is the
camera payload, as it doesn’t require any new techniques in order to be operating. The next on the
scale is the resolution and latency issues, as they are hard to physically prove but easy to estimate. The
VLEO and multi-layer architecture are expected to boost these two topics. The following item is the
inter-satellite optical link, with a TRL equal to 2 and 6 at the beginning and at the end of the project,
respectively. The same happens to the ABEP system, with a TRL equal to 1 and 5 at the beginning and
at the end of the project, respectively.

1.2. Methodology

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The methodology followed to carry out the project is based on the V-model, a model-based systems
engineering that allows to address system requirements, design, implementation, testing and validation
of all the engineering and technological procedures. As it could not be anything less, this V-model is
an iterative process, meaning that the phases of design, implementation and testing form a loop with
the aim to improve the outcome. The model of issue is applicable at any level of development of the
project scope, whether if it is a specific section regarding the programming of an electronic component
of the payload or the integration of the ABEP system to the satellite frame. What’s more, it allows
defining teams that are responsible for each stage of the model. For instance, there will be those in
charge of the design and analysis features, others taking care of the implementation, manufacturing or
programming, and others responsible for the testing and assessment of the result.

The critical points detected on the development of Obsearth are the ones regarding the technologies
with lower Technology Readiness Level. The ABEP and inter-satellite optical link are systems that are
yet to be developed, which means they also have higher risk associated. Therefore, a more thorough
plan needed to be defined, so that obstacles could be overcome. In order to do so, the best way to
ensure the estimated performance by the end of the project duration is to precisely perform tests at
early stages of the development of such systems. Although it may cause a higher cost due to resources
destined for that cause, it may result in higher quality outcomes and that translates to money and time
savings. The idea is to invest extra time during the course of the project in order to prevent unexpected
events from coming out at the end of the project, when there is no time nor resources left.

All the work frame is always followed along with the corresponding managing figure and tools, so that
the work that is progressively performed has a traceability and can be reported. This method of
reporting, monitoring and controlling is considered to be key for the right development of the project
activities. Thus, a dedicated team is responsible for each of the high level work packages.

In order to tackle the data management plan, the following items are specified:

- Types of data/research outputs: images and videos in a wide range of the electromagnetic
spectrum.

- Findability of data/research outputs: Data will be stored using cloud computational services
with digital object identifiers.

- Accessibility of data/research outputs: IPR acquisition will only be available for those who
present certification for allowed entities. Classified information and patents don’t allow
offering much information to the general public.

- Interoperability of data/research outputs: Regarding the modulation-format, downlink is

focused on Intensity-Modulation / Direct-Detection as a robust and cost-effective format.

- Reusability of data/research outputs: Datapool used to share data based on cloud storing
systems.

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- Curation and storage/preservation costs: Quality team and Data Management Manager are in
charge of this issue,

2. Impact

2.1. Project’s pathways towards impact

Talking about the project’s pathways towards impact, it is also important to provide information about
the 3 areas in which impact is expected in the proposal: scientific, societal (including environmental,
economic) and technological.

Talking about the scientific impact, there are several cases in which it is really important in the process
of creating high quality knowledge, fostering diffusion of that knowledge and strengthening human
capital.

The second one, the social impact is in relation with the global challenges, addressing and
strengthening the uptake of EU policy priorities and global challenges through R&I.

Finally, the economic and technological impact is the key for the successful implementation of the
proposal. The idea of creating more and better jobs, generating innovation-based growth and
leveraging investments in R&I will make a significant and direct contribution in the next steps of the
project.

As a negative impact, a list could be drawn up of some weak points that do not become disadvantages
or negative points, such as the environmental impact defined above, although there are always
technical and technological aspects that could be improved, hence the idea is that in the time of the
process, it will be optimized in all departments to obtain the best results.

However, there are some potential obstacles from factors beyond the scope and duration of the project
that may be key to determining whether the desired outcomes and impacts are achieved. Regardless of
those obstacles related to project management, some of them are listed above.

● Regarding the regulatory environment, which includes risks related to processes and
equipment certification and the European, international and space legal framework,
some potential risks are: new restrictive regulations, uncertifiable system or delays in
certifying.

● Regarding D&I, which includes the unpredictable incidents that can occur in research
and investigation activities or designing processes, some potential risks are: saturation

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of the VLEO, need for technological improvement or failing in the implementation of

ABEP technology in the VLEO satellites.

● Regarding production & manufacturing, which includes all risks associated with
component and subsystem production and manufacturing and the possible shortage or
delays in the obtaining of such parts, some potential risks are: manufacturing
obsolescence or delays in receiving the components and subsystems from the
suppliers.

● Regarding testing & simulation, which includes all risks related to unfavorable results
obtained in the simulation, verification or post testing of the different procedures or
subsystems behaviours, some potential risks are: acquired parts do not meet the
requirements atomic oxygen damage causing corrosion, exceeding in the forecasted
payload or delays in completely testing.

Clearly, all of the possible barriers listed above may evolve over time, especially those related to
regulation and D&I.

Thus, mitigation measures have been proposed to be able to counteract each of the potential risks if
necessary. Some of these are listed as follows.

● Regarding the regulatory environment, some mitigation measures are: increase

effectives to develop alternative solutions in order to comply with the regulation,
study for alternative methods to certify or redesign the system avoiding the problems
or monitor, control and increase the number of resources in the activities involved in
certification.

● Regarding D&I, some mitigation measures are: increase testing activities for ABEP
systems or increase effectives to investigate and research solutions to overcome
technological complications.

● Regarding production & manufacturing, some mitigation measures are: search for
alternative manufacturers or forecast the resources needed for third parties and place
the orders with extra margin.

● Regarding testing & simulation, some mitigation measures are: study and inquire the
components that are purchased from third parties before buying them, accurate
previous payload approximation or increase the number of tests and monitoring
activities.

Talking about the impacts and outcomes of the proposal, it should be noted that observations of the
Earth from space provide a magnificent and unique vantage point for gathering information essential to
forecasting the weather, assessing environmental hazard and taking images all around the world

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immediately. Since the first satellites carried cameras into orbit in the late 1950s, space observations
have added a matchless perspective, which has grown richer as our space-based instruments have
evolved in terms of both variety and sophistication.

On the other hand, the significance of the project contribution as ground, sea, and air-based observing
systems contribute to monitoring our planet are also very important.

On the contrary, the proposal has a major limitation, that is the limitation of its view. Even though each
piece of surface-based data can be combined into large maps, as it is done nowadays, data is
representative for only the conditions at one location.

To specify the general characteristics of the proposal, with high resolution images, global coverage and
high frequency levels of interaction, it’s about getting the resources to accomplish hyperspectral
imagery, an accessible cloud platform and cost-effective solution to make a better, more accessible and
communicative world.

2.2. Measures to maximise impact - Dissemination, exploitation and communication

The external communications part of the Obsearth project is to address the general public interested in
the field of study, and the stakeholders. Starting with the scientific community and the general public,
they should be addressed due to their interest in the project but not in a direct way, meaning that the
company does not interact with them. This general public will be reached by invitations to conferences
and congresses, invitations to forums related with the project and related activities such as the
meteorology sector. Furthermore, the company will prepare website and newspaper articles and
publications about the project as well as the use of social media to reach the younger generations.

In addition, related to the stakeholder dissemination plan, they need to be informed periodically. The
purpose of keeping everyone involved is promoting the product developed and emphasising the
benefits of its use for humanity. Also, this channel is used to inform about major updates related to the
project. Regarding promotional activities, the stakeholders will be invited to participate in congresses
and conferences as well as to attend forums related to the main business activities.

Regarding the exploitation, in order to properly manage the intellectual property of Obsearth, the main
strategy will be based on defensive publishing. The advantage is that by disclosing an enabling
description of the new design or invention, sealed with a publication date authenticated, it becomes
prior art. Furthermore, defensive publishing can also protect against two non-negligible threads, which
are patent trolls and non-practicing entities. These subjects apply for patents solely to collect license
fees. Ultimately, it is important to monitor the “picket-fence” strategy, in which competitors patent
incremental improvements around our patent to leverage our core technologies on preferential terms.

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2.3 Summary

Provide a summary of this section by presenting in the canvas below the key elements of your project impact pathway and of the measures to maximise its impact.

KEY ELEMENT OF THE IMPACT SECTION

SPECIFIC NEEDS EXPECTED RESULTS D & E & C MEASURES

What are the specific needs What do you expect to generate by the end of What dissemination, exploitation and communication measures will
that triggered this project? the project? you apply to the results?

There is a need to obtain Large-scale infrastructure: multi-layer orbit Exploitation: Patenting the ABEP system and inter-satellite optical link
Earth-observation imaging data with heights with inter-satellite and satellite-to-ground prototypes.
high resolution and low latency. optical link able to provide imaging solutions
Moreover, operating on VLEO and based on Earth-observation. Dissemination towards the scientific community and stakeholders:
LEO is a challenge regarding orbiting Scientific publication with the results of the large-scale demonstration.
time nowadays. Therefore, research Engineering challenge: development of a TRL 5
and investigation on the technologies of the ABEP system and TRL 6 of the Communication towards population: Invitations to conferences and
applicable to those aspects are key to inter-satellite optical link. congresses and invitations to forums addressing issues of expertise.
develop a disruptive new
space-segment.

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TARGET GROUPS OUTCOMES IMPACTS

Who will use or further up-take the What change do you expect to see after successful What are the expected wider scientific, economic and societal
results of the project? Who will benefit dissemination and exploitation of project results to the effects of the project contributing to the expected impacts
from the results of the project? target group(s)? outlined in the respective destination in the work programme?

Scientific: Advanced research in Air-Breathing Electric

End-users: governments and Uptake by private companies: Companies working Propulsion and the implementation of this technology and
public institutions, scientific on the Earth Observation sector implement the inter-satellite and satellite-to-ground optical link
communities. cutting-edge technologies as well as the proposed Besides, development of multilayer orbits in order to
On the other hand, private architecture of the space-based system. maximise transmission efficiency of the entire network.
companies working on imagery
and/or Earth-observation Governments, public institutions and scientific Economic: Monitoring our planet either crop fields, forests,
communities take advantage of the precision and low volcanos or any other sea or land terrains is crucial to study
General population (indirect) latency of the information collected from the multi-layer their development, control them and prevent any possible
orbital system. catastrophes saving incalculable amounts of money, material
assets and lives.
General population realizes that Earth-observation
using Low Earth Orbits is possible nowadays. Thus, Societal: Multi-layer orbits offer less dense satellite
spread the knowledge and milestones achieved thanks to constellations, therefore this results in a decrease in the number
Obsearth. of satellites which will leave less footprint in space debris.

Furthermore, earth observation, throughout its full coverage

and high resolution, will enforce sectors such as security and
control. Hence, personal and collective security of the
population would be improved.

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3. Work plan and resources

3.1. Brief presentation of the overall structure of the work plan;

Work Breakdown Structure (WBS)

1. Obsearth
1.1. Project management
1.1.1. Scope
1.1.1.1. Objectives
1.1.1.2. Requirements
1.1.1.3. Limitations
1.1.2. Deliverables
1.1.2.1. Monitoring
1.1.2.2. Development
1.1.2.3. Distribution
1.1.3. Milestones
1.1.3.1. Milestones definition
1.1.3.2. Milestones reporting & controlling
1.1.4. Budget
1.1.4.1. Budget definition
1.1.4.2. Budget evaluation & controlling
1.1.4.3. Budget reporting
1.1.5. Schedule
1.1.5.1. WBS
1.1.5.2. Activity list
1.1.5.3. Schedule identification. Gantt chart
1.1.5.4. Schedule reporting & controlling
1.1.6. Communication
1.1.6.1. Internal communication plan
1.1.6.2. External communication plan
1.1.6.3. Media dissemination
1.1.7. Risks
1.1.7.1. Risk identification
1.1.7.2. Risk reporting & controlling
1.1.7.2.1. Risk mitigation plan
1.1.8 Resources
1.1.8.1. Employee training
1.1.8.2. Facilities
1.2. Quality
1.2.1. List of standards and procedures to apply
1.2.2. Measurements and criteria
1.2.3. ISO-9001/ECSS
1.2.4. Certification
1.2.5. Inspection
1.3. Regulation
1.3.1. Space
1.3.2. Europe
1.3.3. International
1.3.4. Radio and communications

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1.3.5. Privacy
1.3.6. Data protection
1.4. Space segment
1.4.1. Mission analysis
1.4.2. VLEO
1.4.2.1. Subsystems
1.4.2.1.1. AOCS
1.4.2.1.2. EPS
1.4.2.1.3. SMS
1.4.2.1.4. Propulsion
1.4.2.1.5. Intersatellite Communications
1.4.2.2. Payload
1.4.2.2.1. Camera
1.4.3. GEO
1.4.3.1.1. Subsystems
1.4.3.1.1. AOCS
1.4.3.1.2. EPS
1.4.3.1.3. SMS
1.4.3.1.4. Communications
1.4.3.1.5. Intersatellite communications
1.5. Ground segment
1.5.1. Ground stations
1.5.1.1. Location
1.5.1.2. In-place qualified crew
1.5.1.3. Elementary components
1.5.2. Data management
1.5.3. Network management
1.5.4. Uplink
1.5.5. Downlink
1.6. MAIT
1.6.1. Manufacturing
1.6.2. Assembly
1.6.3. Integration
1.6.4. Test

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3.2. Timing of the different work packages and their components (Gantt chart or similar);
Figure 1 Gantt Chart

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3.3. Graphical presentation of the components showing how they inter-relate (Pert chart or
similar).

The Network diagram (Figure 1) depicts the list of activities showing a correlation between all the tasks and their
corresponding times and permitted delays.

Every project needs to start with a “Kick-off meeting” and conclude with a “Conclusion meeting” to evaluate the
process that will be followed and the outcome of the project.

Each task has an early start and end date, that most of the time will match with the
latest start and end date, these dates will deviate with the tasks with finish-to-finish
dependencies where if a task needs more time to be completed other tasks can take
some of this extra time in case they want to be revised.

Figure 2 Network Diagram

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3.4. Detailed work description:

3.4.1. List of work packages (table 3.1a);

Table 3.1a: List of work packages

Lead
Work Work package Persons-Mo Start End
Lead participant No participant
package No Title nth Month Month
Short Name
Project Polytechnic University of
1.1 UPC 36 09/21 09/24
Management Catalonia
1.2 Quality University of Manchester UM 7 11/21 5/22
1.3 Regulation University of Manchester UM 11 11/21 9/22
1.4.1 Mission Analysis University of Manchester UM 9 11/21 07/22
1.4.2 VLEO University of Manchester UM 25 03/22 04/24
1.4.3 GEO University of Manchester UM 14 05/22 07/23
Polytechnic University of
1.5 Ground segment UPC 16 11/21 02/23
Catalonia
Technical University of
1.6 MAIT TUM 11 11/23 09/24
Munich
Total
129
persons-month

3.4.2. Description of each work package (table 3.1b);

Table 3.1b.1.1: Description of work package 1.1

Work package
1.1 Lead beneficiary UPC
number
Work package
Project Management
title
Participant
1 2 3
number
Short name of
UPC UM TUM
participant

Person months
30 1 5
per participant:

Start month 09/21 End month 09/24

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Scope definition, development of deliverables, definition and control of milestones, definition and
Objectives control of the budget, WBS creation and scheduling, communication, risks assessment and resource
management
Description of Carry out the management of the project in order to fulfill the objectives, constraints and develop a
work feasible product.
Project Charter - Brief document containing the main topics and objective - T0
Management Plan - Project Schedule, WBS - T0
Technology Trade Off - Preliminary technology review - T0 + 14
Research Results - All data, test results, techniques, know-how, and any other information obtained
previously - T0 + 14
Deliverables Preliminary design - Preliminary design of the several kind of satellites which will be needed to reach
the suitable solution - T0 + 14
Preliminary budget - Preliminary budget taking into account the amount of money that H2020
establishes us - T0 + 20
Logistics - Explicitement of the different tasks which will be developed in this project - T0 + 20
Sign-Off Sheet - Formally close a project or acknowledge the delivery of a key deliverable - T0 + 36

Table 3.1b.1.2: Description of work package 1.2

Work package
1.2 Lead beneficiary UM
number
Work package
Quality
title
Participant
1 2 3
number
Short name of
UPC UM TUM
participant
Person months
1 4 2
per participant:
Start month 11/21 End month 05/22

Objectives Identification of standards and procedures to apply, Certification, Inspection and ISO-9001/ECSS

Description of
Specify the project’s quality requirements as well as how they will be measured and controlled.
work

Quality Plan - Normative and law - T0

Material Research - Can be included in the research results, but in our case, the material research is
Deliverables very important, talking about space field - T0 + 14
Contract and Regulation Acceptance Testing - The operational acceptance testing is used to conduct
operational readiness (pre-release) of the product, service and system - T0 +34

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Operational Acceptance testing - The operational acceptance testing is used to conduct operational
readiness (pre-release) of the product, service and system - T0 +34

Table 3.1b.1.3: Description of work package 1.3

Work package
1.3 Lead beneficiary UM
number

Work package title Regulation

Participant number 1 2 3

Short name of
UPC UM TUM
participant
Person months per
2 6 3
participant:
Start month 11/21 End month 09/22
Define of Space, European, International, telecommunication and data protection regulatory
Objectives
framework

Description of work Investigate the regulatory framework related to the fundamental aspects of the proposal.

Contract and Regulation Acceptance Testing - Test conducted to determine if the requirements of
Deliverables
a specification or contract are met - T0 +34

Table 3.1b.1.4.1: Description of work package 1.4.1

Work package number 1.4.1 Lead beneficiary UM

Work package title Mission Analysis
Participant number 1 2 3
Short name of
participant UPC UM TUM
Person months per
participant: 1 6 2
Start month 11/21 End month 07/22
Objectives Analysis and study of the space mission
Perform an analysis that focuses on the determination of the orbits that both VLEO and GEO
Description of work
satellites will follow in order to best achieve the objective of the mission.
Logistics - Explanation of the different tasks which will be developed in this project - T0
Deliverables +28
Sign-Off Sheet - Formally close a project or acknowledge the delivery of a key deliverable -

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T0 + 36

Table 3.1b.1.4.2: Description of work package 1.4.2

Work package
1.4.2 Lead beneficiary UM
number
Work package title VLEO
Participant
1 2 3
number
Short name of
UPC UM TUM
participant
Person months per
3 16 6
participant:
Start month 03/22 End month 04/24
Objectives Define the 5 satellite subsystems for VLEO configuration
Description of Define and design the satellite that will orbit in Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO) and that will
work mount a camera as a payload in order to fulfill mission objectives.
Preliminary Static & Dynamic analysis - Preliminary analysis of some calculations to establish
the correct operation - T0 +20
Preliminary Electrics & Electronics - Explanation of the electronics and electrics department and
the preliminary design of them - T0 +20
Deliverables
Drawings - Final design of the 2 satellites which will be used and developed for this project - T0
+20
Sign-Off Sheet - Formally close a project or acknowledge the delivery of a key deliverable - T0 +
36

Table 3.1b.1.4.3: Description of work package 1.4.3

Work package number 1.4.3 Lead beneficiary UM

Work package title GEO
Participant number 1 2 3
Short name of
UPC UM TUM
participant
Person months per
1 8 5
participant:
Start month 05/22 End month 07/23
Objectives Define the 5 satellite subsystems for GEO configuration

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Define and design the satellite that will orbit in Geosynchronous orbit to fulfill mission
Description of work
objectives.
Preliminary Static & Dynamic analysis - Preliminary analysis of some calculations to
establish the correct operation - T0 +20
Preliminary Electrics & Electronics - Explanation of the electronics and electrics department
and the preliminary design of them - T0 +20
Deliverables
Drawings - Final design of the 2 satellites which will be used and developed for this project -
T0 +20
Sign-Off Sheet - Formally close a project or acknowledge the delivery of a key deliverable -
T0 + 36

Table 3.1b.1.5: Description of work package 1.5

Work package
1.5 Lead beneficiary UPC
number
Work package title Ground segment
Participant number 1 2 3
Short name of
UPC UM TUM
participant
Person months per
10 2 4
participant:
Start month 11/21 End month 02/23
Objectives Identify and describe the main components of the ground stations

Execute the required analysis and research on all the topics related to the Ground segment of
Description of work
the project.

Drawings - Final design of the 2 satellites which will be used and developed for this project -
T0 +20
Deliverables Logistics - Explanation of the different tasks which will be developed in this project - T0 +28
Sign-Off Sheet - Formally close a project or acknowledge the delivery of a key deliverable -
T0 + 36

Table 3.1b.1.6: Description of work package 1.6

Work package
1.6 Lead beneficiary TUM
number
Work package title MAIT
Participant number 1 2 3

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Short name of
UPC UM TUM
participant
Person months per
0 0 11
participant:
Start month 11/23 End month 09/24
Objectives Identify the MAIT procedures
Define all procedures, tools and machinery used in the manufacturing, assembling and
integration of all components.
Define how and which components are tested and define de measurements and evaluation
Description of work criteria.
Manufacturing and assembling of the structural components.
Integration of all subsystems and the main satellite structure.
Test of the prototype.
Contract and Regulation Acceptance Testing - Test conducted to determine if the requirements
of a specification or contract are met - T0 +34
Operational Acceptance testing - The operational acceptance testing is used to conduct
Deliverables
operational readiness (pre-release) of the product, service and system - T0 +34
Sign-Off Sheet - Formally close a project or acknowledge the delivery of a key deliverable -
T0 + 36

● List of deliverables (table 3.1c):

Work Short name

Deliverable Deliverable Delivery date
package of lead Type Dissemination level
(number) name (in months)
number participant
Project
1 1.1 UPC R SEN T0
Charter
Management
2 1.1 UPC DMP SEN T0
Plan
3 Quality Plan 1.2 UM DATA SEN T0
Technology
4 1.1 UPC DEM SEN T0 + 14
Trade Off
Research
5 1.1 UPC DEM RESTRICTED T0 + 14
Results
Materials
6 1.2 UM DATA RESTRICTED T0 + 14
Research
Preliminary
7 1.1 UPC DEM SEN T0 + 14
design

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Preliminary
Static & 1.4.2
8 UM DEM SEN T0 + 20
Dynamic 1.4.3
analysis
Preliminary
9 1.1 UPC DMP CONFIDENTIAL T0 + 20
budget
Preliminary 1.4.2
10 Electrics & 1.4.3 UM DEM SEN T0 + 20
Electronics 1.5
1.4.2
11 Drawings 1.4.3 UM OTHER SEN T0 + 20
1.5
1.1
12 Logistics UPC DMP SEN T0 + 28
1.4.1
13 Validations 1.5 UPC SECURITY SEN T0 + 28
Contract and
1.2
Regulation
14 1.3 UM SECURITY SEN T0 +34
Acceptance
1.6
Testing
Operational
1.2
15 Acceptance TUM OTHER SEN T0 +34
1.6
testing
1.1
1.4.1
Sign-Off 1.4.2
16 UPC DMP SEN T0 + 36
Sheet 1.4.3
1.5
1.6

● List of milestones (table 3.1d):

Milestone Related work Due date (in

number Milestone name package(s) month) Means of verification
1.1 Start of the project.
1 Kick-Off Meeting (MKO) 1.2 T0 Minutes of the meetings.
Preliminary Technology 1.3 Field survey complete and data quality
2 Review (PTR) 1.4 T0 + 14 validated.
Final satellites (VLEO & GEO) designs
and multi-layer orbit infrastructure report
3 Design Acceptance (DA) 1.4 T0 + 20 completed and validated

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Components are manufactured and the

Manufacturing Acceptance prototype is assembled complying with
4 (MA) 1.6 T0 + 28 quality standards.
Prototype is tested favorably in Munich
Acceptance Test Review 1.3 University testing laboratory complying
5 (UAT) 1.6 T0 + 34 with regulation standards.
Closure of project.
Minutes of the meetings.
All deliverable are revised, validated and
6 Sign-Off (SOF) 1.1 T0 + 36 submitted

● List of critical risks, relating to project implementation, that the stated project's objectives may not be
achieved. (table 3.1e);

Description of risk (indicate level of

Work package(s)
(i) likelihood Proposed risk-mitigation measures
involved
(ii) severity)
Disagreements and discrepancies on the
Arrange periodic meetings in order
working method.
1.1 to propose new working and
(i) (Low)
communication methodologies.
(ii) (Low)
Reduce the level of development of
Going beyond the budget allowed.
demanding activities.
(i) (Low) 1.1
Find new suppliers that offer
(ii) (Low)
cheaper materials.
Unexpectedly, a partner or a supplier
Create solid agreements with
leaves the project.
1.1 partners and establish relationships
(i) (Low)
that engage both parts
(ii) (High)
Political, sanitary or other kinds of
emergencies.
1.1 -
(i) (Low)
(ii) (Medium)
Stucking in any finish-to-start task
which leads to a serious problem of Increase the effectiveness in the
blocking the project. 1.1 activities affected in order to solve
(i) (Low) the problems
(ii) (Low)

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Emergence of competitors with better

Be aware of emerging new
alternatives.
1.1 alternatives and try to integrate in
(i) (Low)
the project to overcome
(ii) (Low)
Not achieving the minimum quality
standards for the project’s mission.
1.2 Increase the number of quality tests
(i) (Low)
(ii) (Low)
New restrictive regulation. Increase effectives to develop
(i) (Low) 1.3 alternative solutions in order to
(ii) (Low) comply with the regulation
Uncertifiable system. Study for alternative methods to
1.2
(i) (Low) certify or redesign the system
1.3
(ii) (Low) avoiding the problems
Delays in certifying. Monitor, control and increase the
1.2
(i) (Low) number of resources in the activities
1.3
(ii) (Low) involved in certification
Saturation of the VLEO.
1.4.1
(i) (Low) -
1.4.2
(ii) (Medium)
Need for technological improvement. Increase effectives to investigate
1.1
(i) (Low) and research solution to overcome
1.2
(ii) (Low) technological complications
Deferral in finishing the design of the
1.1
satellite. Increase effectiveness in satellite
1.4.2
(i) (Low) design activities
1.4.3
(ii) (Low)
The technology of the proposal is 1.1
beyond the capabilities of the team. 1.4.1 Investigate and research for other
(i) (Low) 1.4.2 technological alternatives
(ii) (Low) 1.4.3
Failing in the implementation of ABEP
1.4.1
technology in the VLEO satellites. Increase testing activities for ABEP
1.4.2
(i) (Low) systems
1.4.3
(ii) (High)
Manufacturing obsolescence.
1.1 Search for alternative
(i) (Low)
1.6 manufacturers
(ii) (Low)

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Unexpected impediment to manufacture.

1.1 Control and monitor manufacturing
(i) (Low)
1.6 activities
(ii) (Low)
Delays in receiving the components and
1.1 Forecast the resources needed for
subsystems from the suppliers.
1.2 third parties and place the orders
(i) (Low)
1.6 with extra margin
(ii) (Low)
Unexpected results in tests and
verification procedures. 1.1 Increase the number of effectives to
(i) (Low) 1.2 solve the problem
(ii) (Low)
Delays in completely testing.
1.1 Increase the number of tests and
(i) (Low)
1.2 monitoring activities
(ii) (Low)
Acquired parts do not meet the
Study and inquire the components
requirements. 1.6
that are purchased from third parties
(i) (Low) 1.2
before buying them
(ii) (Low)
Data transmission problems. 1.4.2
Increase the number of tests and
(i) (Low) 1.4.3
monitoring activities
(ii) (Low) 1.5
Atomic oxygen damage causing
1.4.1 Look for materials and structure
corrosion.
1.4.2 configurations which can lessen the
(i) (Low)
1.4.2 effects.
(ii) (Low)
Satellite subsystem failures. 1.4.1
(i) (Low) 1.4.2 Test each subsystem separately
(ii) (Medium) 1.4.3
Exceeding in the forecasted payload.
Accurate previous payload
(i) (Low) 1.4.1
approximation
(ii) (Medium)

● Table showing number of person months required (table 3.1f);

Total Persons-Month per

1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4.1 1.4.2 1.4.3 1.5 1.6 Participant
UPC 30 1 2 1 3 1 10 0 48
UM 1 4 6 6 16 8 2 0 43

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TUM 5 2 3 2 6 5 4 11 38
Total
Persons-Month 36 7 11 9 25 14 16 11 129

● Tables showing description and justification of subcontracting costs for each participant (table 3.1g);

Polytechnic University of Catalonia

Subcontracting Cost (€) Description of task and justification
Media Perform a large-scale communication, delivering content such as publications, if written, and
dissemination 40,500 information to viewers with everything related to the project conducted.
Network Define and design with the aim to operate, administrate and maintenance of the computers and
management 40,800 telecommunication networks, which will be ruled by a majority voting algorithm

University of
Manchester
Subcontracting Cost (€) Description of task and justification
Execute an assessment to ensure the quality procedures and processes of the project following the
rules of certifications such as ISO 9001 and European Cooperation for Space Standardization
ISO 9001/ECSS 20,200 (ECSS). The deliverable is a report indicating the non-conformances and their proposed solution.
Do research on the legal principles of privacy policies addressed to aspects such as imagery and
communication. Identify the aspects to consider if the project is required to be implemented, such as
Privacy and Data the policies concerning human rights.
36,900
protection
Do research on data processing and management legal procedures. Besides, identify cybersecurity
and data protection policies and study the security measures to be adopted.

Technical
University of
Munich
Subcontracting Cost (€) Description of task and justification
- - -

● Table showing justifications for ‘purchase costs’ (table 3.1h) for participants where those costs exceed 15%
of the personnel costs (according to the budget table in proposal part A);

The only participant which has ‘purchase costs’ greater than the 15% of the personnel costs is the Technical
University of Munich. The following table shows and justifies those costs.

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Technical University of Munich

Cost (€) Justification
Cost of all the equipment related
to manufacture and assembly:
Equipment 740228€
materials, cameras, sensors,
electronic components, etc.
Other costs like patents
Other goods, works and
329401€ or testing facilities
services
are considered
Cost of travelling to attend to
Travel and subsistence 37011€ scheduled face-to-face meetings
between different consortiums
Remaining purchase
costs (<15% of pers. 3701€
Costs)
Total 1110342€

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3.2 Capacity of participants and consortium as a whole

The members of the consortium that are participating in the project are the Polytechnic University of
Catalonia, Manchester University and Munich University. These three partners have been brought
together having in mind the scope and main objectives of this project; every partner excels in an area of
expertise needed and complement each other.

The Polytechnic University of Catalonia (UPC) is the member of the consortium responsible for assessing
the management of the entire project including scope, milestones, budget and WBS definition, risks
identification and the controlling and monitoring of tasks and deadlines maintaining proper
communication between departments and partners. Additionally, UPC will also lead the development of
the activities related to the ground segment including ground stations and network management. Taking in
consideration all the activities UPC will lead or participate in, they will have 50.7% of the total work
packages, using up to 28.9% of the total budget.

Manchester University (UM), which is another constituent of the consortium, is the one who leads in
quality, regulation and the whole space segment since they are experts in Air-Breathing Electric
Propulsion systems and have vast knowledge and experience in other satellite subsystems. Besides, they
provide with their wide expertise in space regulation framework. Therefore, having a value of 41.1% of
the total work packages, they will use 18.8% of the total budget.

Finally, the third member of the consortium is Munich University (TUM) which will be responsible for all
tasks related to the Manufacturing, Assembly and Integration of all satellite components and Testing of
the prototypes (or MAIT). Munich University provides up-to-date infraestructures and machinery and
their management capabilities and expertise in satellite manufacturing and other resembleble projects
makes them the perfect candidate as the leading partner in MAIT. While only taking part in 8.2% of the
total work packages, due to the nature of these activities, use up to 52.3% of total budget.

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Budget

(A) Direct Maximum EU

Other direct Direct costs of Indirect Total estimated Reimbursement Requested EU
No Participant Country personnel contribution
costs (€) subcontracting (€) costs (€)* eligible costs rate (%) contribution
costs (€) (€)

Universitat
1 Politècnica de Spain 583.900€ 2.767€ 85.300€ 205.333€ 877.300€ 100.00% 877.300€ 877.300€
Catalunya

University of United
2 352.800€ 12.000€ 57.100€ 127.680€ 549.580€ 100.00% 549.580€ 549.580€
Manchester Kingdom

Technical University
3 Germany 54.500€ 1.110.780€ 0€ 407.848€ 1.573.128€ 100.00% 1.573.128€ 1.573.128€
of Munich

TOTAL 991200€ 1125547€ 142400€ 740861€ 3000000€ 100.00% 3000000€ 3000000€

*Indirect costs are considered to be equal to 35% of the direct costs, 25% corresponding to indirect costs and 10% corresponding to contingency.

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