Division 6.1 General context and process

The Copernicus Space Component evolution concerns the adaptations of the Space component beyond 2020 and beyond the current MFF. This chapter details preparatory activities necessary to support a decision on the future evolution of the Copernicus Space Component, within the framework of the Space Strategy. It details user requirements activities which shall be carried out under the current MFF as preparatory actions for the Copernicus Space Component Evolution. These activities shall take into account, where appropriate, elements of the ESA Long-term Scenario. Adaptations could include:

1. (a)

   Changes to the current Space Component Infrastructure;

2. (b)

   Development of Dedicated Copernicus Missions;

3. (c)

   Arrangements to obtain data from Contributing Missions.

User requirement activities to be conducted to scope the evolution of the Copernicus Space Component (Figure 2) shall include:

1. (a)

   Identification of future observation requirements and gaps;

2. (b)

   Analysis of options to meet evolving observation needs, these options could include the adaptations listed above.