Project Support Overview
The Pléiades Neo Applications Campus, an initiative by the Centre National d'Études Spatiales (CNES) and Airbus, is designed to stimulate innovation in Earth observation among French companies and entities. This program offers an exceptional opportunity to develop applications utilizing the advanced capabilities of the Pléiades Neo satellite data. Through this initiative, selected projects receive substantial support, including access to a valuable dataset archive under a technical evaluation license, along with specialized tools and resources. The program is structured to help participants overcome technical and operational hurdles, ensuring that their innovations are market-ready by the end of the project.
The support provided by CNES and Airbus is comprehensive, encompassing not only access to Pléiades Neo data but also extensive human and technical expertise. Project leaders are guided through every phase of their innovation journey, from development to market launch, without any financial exchange, thanks to a package valued at around €10,000. This collaborative framework is instrumental in helping participants refine their business models and bring their Earth observation applications to the national and international markets. For those interested in participating, applications are open, offering a unique chance to be part of this groundbreaking initiative.
Access and Licensing
In 2024, the CNES and Airbus are launching three calls for projects under the Pléiades Neo Applications Campus, exclusively for French companies and startups. These calls aim to foster innovation in space applications using Pléiades Neo data. Each project selected by the CNES-Airbus committee will benefit from a comprehensive support package, including access to a Pléiades Neo dataset, Open Source tools, and technical and business guidance. The support phase also includes assistance in marketing the developed service at the project's conclusion. The third call for projects, focusing on all market verticals of Pléiades Neo, will be open from July 16 to October 11, 2024.
Participation begins with the formalization of a tripartite agreement between the CNES, Airbus, and the project leader, covering a typical project duration of one year. This agreement grants the project leader a free and non-exclusive license to use the Common Technical Base tools and access Pléiades Neo data, governed by the Technical Evaluation License. This framework is designed to facilitate innovation and ensure adherence to established protocols, enabling projects to effectively utilize satellite data for Earth observation applications.
Advancements in Earth Observation
Airbus and CNES are inviting French companies and startups to participate in a series of innovation project calls focused on leveraging Pléiades Neo satellite data. Throughout 2024, three project calls will be launched, offering participants the opportunity to access very-high resolution satellite imagery, open-source tools, and comprehensive support. This initiative aims to foster the development of cutting-edge space applications with significant business potential, targeting both national and international markets.
Selected projects will receive a valuable dataset from the Pléiades Neo constellation, known for its exceptional 30 cm resolution and rapid tasking capabilities, alongside technical and business guidance. The support phase also includes assistance in marketing the resulting service, ensuring that innovative ideas can be successfully commercialized. A tripartite agreement between CNES, Airbus, and the project leader will establish the framework for implementation and support.
The third call for projects is currently open from July 16 to October 11, 2024, and focuses on various market verticals. This is a unique opportunity to de-risk innovation projects, refine business models, and capitalize on the extensive capabilities of Pléiades Neo data. Interested French entities are encouraged to apply and develop internationally focused space applications with the backing of CNES and Airbus.
Sector-Specific Applications: In 2024, the CNES and Airbus are launching the Campus des Applications Pléiades Neo, a unique opportunity exclusively for French companies and startups to develop international space application projects using Pléiades Neo satellite data. Three calls for projects will be opened throughout the year, inviting innovative proposals in areas such as environmental monitoring, urban planning, and disaster management. Selected projects will receive a comprehensive support package, including access to a Pléiades Neo dataset, Open Source tools, and tailored human, technical, and business guidance. This support aims to help refine business models and explore commercialization opportunities post-project. The third call for projects runs from July 16 to October 11, 2024. Interested parties are encouraged to submit their applications to seize this chance to advance their innovative space solutions.
Performance Metrics: To ensure the effectiveness of the Pléiades Neo constellation, several key performance metrics are employed. These include the accuracy of geolocation data, the resolution of imagery, and the frequency of updates. The high resolution of 30 cm enables detailed object recognition and precise measurements, while the capability to revisit any point on Earth at least daily ensures that users receive up-to-date information. The performance of the satellites is continuously monitored to maintain high standards of data quality and reliability.
Strategic Goals and Targets: The strategic goals of the Pléiades Neo constellation are centered around advancing Earth observation capabilities and supporting a wide range of applications. Key targets include enhancing the resolution and accuracy of satellite imagery, expanding the coverage area, and increasing the frequency of data acquisition. By achieving these targets, the Pléiades Neo constellation aims to provide users with unparalleled insights and support for decision-making across various sectors.
Strategic Impacts and Applications
The Pléiades Neo Applications Campus represents a significant advancement in Earth observation by offering French companies and startups a unique platform to harness the very-high resolution capabilities of Pléiades Neo satellite data. This initiative is strategically designed to foster innovation across various sectors, including environmental monitoring, urban planning, and disaster management. By providing comprehensive support—ranging from data access to expert guidance the program aims to catalyze the development of cutting-edge applications that can address complex global challenges and support informed decision-making.
The impact of this initiative extends beyond individual projects, contributing to the broader goal of enhancing Earth observation capabilities and expanding the reach of very-high resolution satellite imagery. By promoting the commercialization of innovative solutions, the Pléiades Neo Applications Campus helps to refine business models and opens up new opportunities in both national and international markets. This strategic approach not only elevates the quality of data applications but also supports the advancement of technologies that are crucial for sustainable development and effective management of natural resources.