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Horizon Europe Cluster 4 — Twin (Green+Digital) Transition for Industry

Horizon Space: Space Refuelling Interface

Funds €2–3M projects developing a European refuelling interface — the docking hardware that lets satellites be topped up in orbit.

OpenEuropean CommissionEUNorwayIceland

In-orbit servicing needs one thing before anything else: a refuelling interface both sides trust. Today the critical hardware comes from outside the EU, under export controls. This topic funds the development of a European space refuelling interface — named directly in the EU's critical-technologies roadmap under robotic manipulators for space.

Projects must map their supply chain, prove the fina

Maturing a European space refuelling interface and its supply chain — the standard equipment for in-orbit refuelling operations — including qualification planning against space standards and a commercialisation roadmap.

CycleiHow often this grant runs — e.g. annually, on a rolling basis, or a one-off call.One-off
Next deadlineiThe next date applications are due. Rolling means you can apply any time.3 Sept 2026
Decision timeiTypical time from the deadline to the funder's decision.22 weeks
Project durationiHow long the funded work is expected to run.
Award typeiThe form of funding — grant, equity, loan, tax credit, etc.Grant
Match fundingiThe share of project costs you must cover yourself. 0% = fully funded.0%
Funding pooliThe total budget available across all awards in this round.€2.9M

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Last verified: 12 Aug 2026Funder reference: HORIZON-CL4-2026-SPACE-03-86Source: ec.europa.eu