CASSINI Challenges Winners 2026
The CASSINI Challenges called for innovation on a number of thematic topics. CASSINI Challenges is the ultimate launchpad for space entrepreneurs. Whether you are building upstream infrastructure or downstream applications, we help you turn EU Space data and assets (Galileo, Copernicus, SSA/SST, or GOVSATCOM) into commercial successes.
Meet the innovators
Satellite based Forest Storm Damage Detection
CollectiveCrunch's Storm Damage Detection uses AI and Copernicus satellite data to map wind-damaged forests after storms. Sentinel-1 SAR and Sentinel-2 imagery deliver 10m-resolution damage maps into forestry workflows. Developed with customers after the Johannes/Hannes storm (27 Dec 2025), it includes a newly validated winter detection model — mapping damage under snow cover for the first time.
Multi-Band Deployable Antenna for
Space–Air–Ground Connectivity
SAT has developed a patented thin-membrane antenna operating across L/S/X/Ku-Ka bands simultaneously from a single aperture — replacing up to 5 conventional antenna systems. TRL 6, the MVP delivers 80% mass and volume reduction versus rigid reflectors, enabling multi-mission satellite operations from one platform. Two EU patent filed. Validated through simulation, prototyping and RF measurements.
SpaceLocker
SpaceLocker offers universal payload hosting : using our patented universal interface, we provide on-orbit access aboard our own satellites and partner vehicles, securing dedicated slots for secondary payloads at a fraction of the cost of a dedicated mission. This plug-and-play service enables any organization — regardless of prior space experience — to launch and operate their payload through our mission interface within twelve months.
Modular Cluster Propulsion System HALO
A modular cluster propulsion system is based on ionic-liquid electrospray technology, integrating multiple propulsive heads with shared avionics to deliver high total impulse (>20kNs). It enables ultra precise low-power maneuvering on LEO and VLEO, supporting EU Space Programme infrastructures, rapid response to SST/SSA alerts, and constellation operations.
Hula Earth
Hula Earth leverages cutting-edge satellite data as the backbone for biodiversity monitoring at scale. We fuse Earth observation with AI-powered ground sensors to deliver continuous environmental intelligence. Our space-ground system detects biodiversity patterns, trends, and indicators for ecosystem health across agricultural and infrastructure sites, providing actionable insights for managers.
DeepWaive
Copernicus-Enabled Flood Intelligence Platform
FloodWaive Predictive Intelligence GmbH
DeepWaive is a Copernicus-enabled flood forecasting platform combining physics-informed AI with Earth observation, terrain and weather data to deliver building-level flood prediction, real-time forecasting and decision support. It produces local 2D flood maps in seconds rather than hours, helping municipalities, insurers and infrastructure operators protect lives, assets and critical services.
SAFE
SAFE is a space traffic management platform designed to secure assets and optimise satellite operations. Its algorithms flag collision risks in advance with higher accuracy than the state of the art, and propose collision avoidance manoeuvre options that minimise operational disruption. SAFE’s precision and consistency enables users to manage collision risks while saving time and resources.
STAR-Water-nano
STAR-Water-nano is a compact, plug-and-play propulsion system for nanosatellites, featuring a highly efficient electric thruster that improves global services by providing simpler, faster and scalable electric propulsion for satellite constellations. Its modular, fully integrated design enables rapid integration, its water as a propellant ensures a safe, reliable solution for in-orbit maneuvers.
NaviCode Caravel
NaviCode Caravel is an onboard navigation software that enables satellites to autonomously determine their orbit in real time and with high-accuracy using GNSS data. It is designed for seamless integration across different onboard computing systems, enabling rapid deployment and in-orbit upgrades and adoption, reducing reliance on ground operations, and supporting scalable satellite missions.
ARCA SATCOM
ARCA SATCOM by CYSEC is the first European Performance-Enhancing Proxy with built-in encryption, enabling governments to adopt commercial SATCOM services at GOVSATCOM-grade security — with 30% better throughput and zero latency penalty. Validated with Viasat & Hellas-Sat and CNES, it directly addresses EUSPA's mission to secure EU governmental satellite communications.
MARGINS
Production Regions Are Being Redrawn
The EU is a key player in fruit & veg. genetics, a billion-€ industry struggling to identify and manage production regions where to grow new varieties that meet consumer & climatic requirements. MARGINS developed a model to identify and monitor identical growing regions worldwide. Matching regions follow an assessment using ERA5 and other Copernicus data to certify that they meet the prescribed variety requirements.
Pyri
Ground-Truth Wildfire Intelligence from Copernicus Data
Pyri is an ultra-early wildfire detection system combining low-cost, heat-activated ground sensors with Copernicus Earth Observation data. Sensors trigger at ignition, transmitting signals that are verified using satellite-derived environmental context to deliver high-confidence, ground-level fire location within minutes, enabling faster, targeted response and improved decision-making.
