14.05.2025
Call-en
FLEX CORE GROUND SEGMENT OPERATIONS SERVICE (F-COPS)
The FLEX Data Management and Operations Ground Segment (GS) implements functions required for scientific data acquisition, processing, storage, and access for users. This call is aimed at providing the FLEX Core Ground Segment Operations Service (F-COPS), which is responsible for the operation, corrective and preventive maintenance, and further development of the mission-specific core functions of the FLEX ground segment in phase E2. Applications for FLEX CORE GROUND SEGMENT OPERATIONS SERVICE (F-COPS) can be submitted via ESA Star Publication until July 10, 2025.
Further information:
- Planning of payload activities: Defining the operational scenarios for the FLORIS instrument, taking into account the scientific objectives of the mission, the constraints of the satellite and ground segment, and the calibration and characterization requirements
- Planning payload data transmission: Planning the satellite's X-band data transmissions and the corresponding activities of the X-band ground station(s)
- Systematic data processing: Systematic processing of the instrument's raw scientific telemetry data up to levels 0, 1, and 2
- End-to-end monitoring: End-to-end performance monitoring of GS behavior from mission planning through X-band data acquisition, product generation, and archiving to the availability of data to users. The contractor shall also be fully responsible for the setup, procurement, management, and maintenance of the IT resources required to operate these functions, including network and system security, throughout the entire duration of the service. The above service shall be provided for the following phases:
- Phase 1: Establishment of the operational and reference platforms, gradual introduction of the service, and preparations for operation. This phase includes all activities necessary to establish the operational/reference platforms and the service, as well as to accompany and support the ESA team during the GSV and in-orbit commissioning phases so that operations can be taken over after successful completion of the commissioning phase. This phase will be completed with the Operational Readiness Review (ORR), in which the contractor must demonstrate its ability to provide the entire service. Phase 1 will last one year and will begin on January 15, 2026*.
- Phase 2: Routine service delivery includes the actual operation, maintenance, and further development of the core ground segment, including the necessary IT resources. During Phase 2, service performance will be evaluated quarterly through specific service reviews. Phase 2 will run for 2.5 years from January 15, 2027*, with a possible extension to 3.5 years (i.e., 2.5+1 year). * Dates subject to the official start date.
Further details are available in a presentation from the F-COPS information day on May 16, which can be found here.
