ECSS NextGen project – Introduction

Building on more than 30 years of success, the European Cooperation for Space Standardization (ECSS) is now focusing on preparing for the next decades with the launch of the ECSS NextGen Project. The Project goal is to develop a modern, agile, and digital updated ECSS system that will strengthen the European space ecosystem, support all European Industries and national agencies and maintain international cooperation.

A comparison of different standardization systems was carried out and the results were discussed by the ECSS Technical Authority and the ECSS Steering Board.

Figure 1 – comparison of different standardization systems

The separation of what/who/when – how – why content (as exampled by EASA in the comparison) has been established to simplify the use of ECSS. Requirements include what, who, and when, which are primarily used as contractual reference. Means of Compliance includes how, for use as benchmark approaches to support the compliance to requirements. Guidance material includes why, to support the application of ECSS in different use cases.

The ECSS NextGen WG has been established with participants from Space Agencies and Industry, including Large System Integrators, SMEs and Mid-Caps.

Figure 2 – ECSS NEXTGEN WG members

 

The ECSS NEXTGEN WG has elaborated the following mission statement:

The project follows a three-pillar approach:

1. ECSS issue D: a simplified version of the current system, categorising what/who/when and how.

2. Digitalization: moving from document-based approach to a modern requirements database including AI/ML tools to support all users, enable efficient data management and digital exchange means with the end users.

 

3. Multidimensional Tailoring: providing a multi-dimensional project and product-specific tailoring tool for all stakeholders and procurement scenarios.

The completion of the ECSS NextGen Project activities is foreseen by December 2025 with a rollout of the digital platform and ECSS Issue D in early 2026. ECSS Issue D specific training will be organized in 2026.

 

What should I do?

Release of Issue D will be accompanied by new guidance on how to use it, – remember, the re-organization and digitalization is to help the user to select what is most appropriate for their purpose, no more or less.

–> Want to know more? – E-mail the ECSS Secretariat ecss-secretariat@esa.int  and see our FAQ page.