GSTP is ESA's flagship technology development initiative designed to mature space technologies from early concepts to flight-ready systems. 
In parallel an OSIP campaign has been launched: RFI - GSTP E1 Develop Compendia 2026 – 2028. The aim is to gather companies and organisations’ interest on the Compendia activities. The campaign is open until 31st of October 2025. 

GSTP Programme Structure 

GSTP operates through three distinct elements addressing different stages of technology maturation. Element 1 (Develop) forms the programme's core, maturing technologies from engineering prototypes to qualification for ESA and national missions. Element 2 (Make) provides industry-initiated co-funded activities to strengthen competitiveness through market-oriented technology development. Element 3 (Fly) supports in-orbit demonstration of new technologies and small mission execution, proving innovations in real space conditions from hosted payloads to complete spacecraft. 

New Compendia 2026-2028 Now Available 

The comprehensive portfolio includes 143 activities categorised across five strategic technology areas: Generic Technologies, Artificial Intelligence, Digitalisation, Quantum Technologies and Cybersecurity. These priority areas reflect Europe's commitment to maintaining technological leadership in critical space domains and provide industry and academia with a clear roadmap for targeted participation in advancing Europe's space capabilities. 

The E1 compendia 2026-2028 are available from the esa-star publication portal (requires AU-login). A copy is available to AU employees ESA GSTP E1 compendia 2026-2028.