FutureEO benefits series – Enhancing Europe’s strategic autonomy with a large deployable reflector for EO • Oct 2025

Funded by FutureEO, the Large Deployable Reflector for EO (LEO-B) project strengthened key partnerships among German companies operating in the space sector like HPS and LSS.

The project has advanced the technology readiness level (TRL) from 4 to 6, overcoming the "innovation valley of death."

Through the advancements in the Large Deployable Reflector Subsystem (LDRS) technologies for Europe, the activity fulfilled the requirements of the ESA Copernicus Imaging Microwave Radiometer (CIMR) mission. This success is set to secure a €125 million follow-on funding to mature the technology for the CIMR mission.

The project has also created and supported 56 jobs, enhancing and contributing to build a strong European expertise, non-dependence and technological leadership in the development of LDRS subsystems.

Launched over 25 years ago, the FutureEO programme is at the core of the ESA Earth Observation activities. It pushes boundaries of Earth observation, delivering excellence in science, technology innovation, preparing for new operational missions and supporting scientists, policymakers, and society with the knowledge needed to protect our planet’s future in the domain of environment, climate change and sustainability.

From pioneering Earth Explorer missions to agile Scout satellites and AI-powered data solutions, FutureEO is ESA’s commitment to scientific excellence, societal resilience, and global cooperation.

FutureEO is structured around three defining pillars that provide a streamlined and centralised framework for ESA’s Earth Observation goals. They work together to ensure there is a smooth flow of information between projects, connecting innovative ideas with scientific objectives to inform and guide the development of missions from concept through to design and realisation.

Links to the full report & infographics from the library