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ARTES Weekly Series - Eurialo: Global, Real-Time Aircraft Tracking from Space

ARTES Weekly Series - Eurialo: Global, Real-Time Aircraft Tracking from Space • Nov 2025

The European Space Agency’s Advanced Research in Telecommunications Systems (ARTES) programme helps turn innovative concepts into commercial reality. Under ARTES Space Systems for Safety & Security (4S), Eurialo is developing a satellite-based system for real-time, global aircraft tracking. The project presents a breakthrough that will transform the safety, security, and sustainability of air travel.


Eurialo overcomes the limitations of traditional radar, providing uninterrupted coverage even over oceans and remote regions. This capability will enable more efficient air traffic management and support the eventual decommissioning of terrestrial tracking stations. Aligned with the European Air Traffic Management (ATM) Master Plan, Eurialo ensures resilient, space-based infrastructure for global aviation, offering both operational and environmental benefits.


ESA’s role has been central, providing €10.6 million in funding to a European consortium bringing together the German, French, and Italian space agencies alongside multiple industry partners. ESA experts worked closely with the team to validate technical assumptions, refine designs, and accelerate progress through a highly collaborative, results-driven approach. This support has helped de-risk the project while laying the groundwork for scaling to a full constellation.


The results already point to a significant step forward:


·       In-orbit demonstration scheduled for 2026

·       Expected to reach around 180 customers worldwide

·       Saving contributions of €525 million expected by 2040 through allowing for the decommissioning of terrestrial stations

·       Cost-saving advantages for developing countries and improved resilience for navigation providers

·       Enabled expansion of industry partner with a new office in Munich to support growth


As the project team from Spire notes, “Space-based aircraft tracking and geolocation is the future of air traffic management to ensure safe, secure and sustainable air travel at a global scale.”. With the in-orbit demonstration approaching and commercial uptake expected to grow rapidly, Eurialo is poised to become a cornerstone of next-generation aviation safety.

Explore the full portfolio of ARTES case studies to see how ESA is enabling innovation, competitiveness, and socio-economic benefits across Europe’s space sector.


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