Space instrumentation development (PRODEX)
The Swiss space science community develops, supplies and operates world-class scientific instruments and subsystems for space missions. These development projects and scientific operations are carried out under the PRODEX Programme (Programme de Développement d'Expériences Scientifiques), which is run by the European Space Agency (ESA).
Researchers at Swiss higher education research centres can apply for funding to develop scientific space instrumentation. Approved projects are guided by a lead researcher and carried out in collaboration with Swiss industry. This collaboration fosters a mutually beneficial transfer of knowledge and expertise, which in turn benefits education, innovation and competitiveness.
PRODEX projects are financed through Switzerland's contributions to the PRODEX Programme, which gives project participants access to ESA's expertise and specialist knowledge.
Further information about the PRODEX Programme can be found on the ESA website.
PRODEX funding: application guidelines, requirements and deadlines for applications
Researchers at Swiss research institutes can submit PRODEX applications to the Swiss Space Office at SERI in accordance with the national guidelines. Applications are evaluated at national level and by ESA’s PRODEX Office. Projects that are approved receive funding through Switzerland's contributions to the PRODEX Programme and are implemented via ESA and its PRODEX Office.
Applicants can find all information on the conditions of participation, evaluation criteria and eligible costs in the instructions for PRODEX projects (available in four languages):
Exchange rate
PRODEX projects are carried out in accordance with ESA regulations. Budgets and financial statements must be prepared in euros.
The applicable exchange rate for PRODEX applications is indicated in the overview of submission deadlines in the table below.
Submission deadlines for PRODEX applications
PRODEX applications must be submitted in a two-stage procedure:
- In a first step, a letter of intent must be submitted to SERI. Applicants can format this freely or use Template 1 provided below.
- In a second step, a full proposal must be submitted in English using Template 2 (also below).
PRODEX letters of intent applications can be submitted via e-mail: space@sbfi.admin.ch