The European Satellite Services Provider (ESSP) stands as a cornerstone among European companies belonging to the European satellite-based services ecosystem. As the company celebrates its 15th anniversary, it is the right time to reflect on its journey, its significant achievements, and its strong commitment to the European Union (EU) policy and aerospace technology developments. Since its creation in 2009, ESSP has been operating under the mandate of the European Union Space Programme Agency (EUSPA) and the EU, evolving from a specialized service provider to a key player in satellite navigation, communication and surveillance services.

ESSP's Genesis and Mission

ESSP was founded in 2009 by a consortium of seven leading European Air Navigation Service Providers (ANSPs), with a shared vision of creating a robust, independent satellite-based services provider that would ensure the safety, security and reliability of the European satellite navigation system, EGNOS. The founding members and shareholders include key organizations such as DFS (Germany), DSNA (France), Enaire (Spain), ENAV (Italy), NATS (United Kingdom), NAV Portugal, and Skyguide (Switzerland).

Operating from the beginning, ESSP has been the service provider entirely dedicated to EGNOS (European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service), being responsible for the management of its operations and the implementation of the service in Europe.

EGNOS is the first pan-European satellite navigation system that provides very accurate and fully reliable positioning data. EGNOS was developed by the European Space Agency (ESA) in collaboration with the European Commission and EUROCONTROL. It is now owned and managed by the European Union (EU), who oversees EGNOS through the European Union Agency for the Space Programme (EUSPA), ensuring that it continues to serve European citizens and industries that contribute to Europe's technological and economic growth.

From the early stages of EGNOS development, ESSP has played a key role in ensuring the seamless functionality and delivery of EGNOS services, supporting critical applications in sectors such as aviation. For European citizens, this means safer air travel thanks to accurate and reliable location data. EGNOS helps ensure the smooth running of everyday activities, from transport to emergency services, benefiting both businesses and individuals across Europe.

In an era where satellite systems are increasingly vital to a wide range of applications, ESSP prioritizes robust cybersecurity measures to protect these infrastructures against evolving threats. By integrating cutting-edge security protocols and fostering a resilient, secure network, ESSP ensures that its services remain reliable and protected. Additionally, ESSP is committed to minimizing the environmental footprint of its operations, contributing to Europe’s sustainability goals and helping to mitigate the effects of climate change. This multi-dimensional approach strengthens ESSP’s reputation as a trusted partner for satellite navigation and environmental monitoring services in the European region.

Growth and Achievements

Over the past 15 years, ESSP has not only fulfilled its original mandate but has also expanded its scope and capabilities. The company's growth can be seen in several key areas:

1. Dual Certification by the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA)

One of ESSP’s most significant achievements is its dual certification by the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). In 2010, ESSP became a pan-European satellite-based service provider to receive EASA certification as an Air Navigation Service Provider (ANSP) for its management of the EGNOS Safety-of-Life (SoL) service. This certification recognized ESSP's ability to provide satellite-based services that meet the stringent safety and reliability standards required for aviation.

In 2023, ESSP achieved its second EASA certification as a pan-European Communication Service Provider (CSP), affirming its role in the provision of satellite-based communication services for Air Traffic Management (ATM) and other critical applications. Following this milestone, the European Space Agency (ESA) and Viasat (formerly Inmarsat) appointed ESSP as Iris service provider.

Iris is a satellite-based datalink program that facilitates secure and real-time data exchanges between pilots and air traffic controllers, overcoming the limitations of congested VHF radio frequencies. By integrating satellite communications into ATM systems, the Iris service allows better routing, reduced delays, and more efficient fuel usage. Iris directly contributes to the Single European Sky (SES) goals of optimizing European airspace and reducing aviation’s environmental footprint.

2. Expansion of Service Offerings

ESSP has continuously expanded its service offerings to meet the evolving needs of European citizens and businesses. Over the years, ESSP has also grown strategically, increasing its workforce and technical capabilities, reflecting the company’s adaptability and responsiveness to new technological challenges and market demands.

Today, ESSP not only provides world-class navigation services through its management of EGNOS, but also offers data link communication and surveillance services, having become a CNS (Communication, Navigation, Surveillance) service provider.

Through these CNS services, ESSP is proud to contribute to the modernization of airspace traffic management, enabling safer, more efficient and sustainable aviation across Europe.

At the core of ESSP's operations lies a strong commitment to service and customer satisfaction. Whether providing satellite navigation services through EGNOS or managing satellite communications with Iris, ESSP consistently brings its customers to the forefront of its efforts, ensuring a reliable, secure, and efficient service tailored to the evolving needs of European citizens and businesses.

ESSP has consistently invested in research and development to improve its service offerings. The company works closely with European institutions, research centers, and industry partners to stay at the forefront of technological innovation.

For instance, ESSP is also responsible for a service called Space Weather, awarded by ICAO, which focuses on monitoring and analyzing space weather conditions—such as solar storms and cosmic radiation—that can impact satellite systems and ground-based technologies. This project is vital for predicting and mitigating potential disruptions in satellite navigation and communication services caused by space weather events.

Conclusion

As ESSP celebrates its 15th anniversary, the company stands as a symbol of European innovation, reliability, and commitment to public service. Over the past decade and a half, ESSP has grown from a specialized service provider to a key player in the European satellite services landscape. With dual EASA certifications, a broad range of service offerings, and a strong alignment with EU policy under the mandate of EUSPA, ESSP is well-positioned to continue leading in the field of satellite-based Navigation, Communication, and Surveillance services.

Looking ahead, ESSP faces exciting opportunities and challenges as it continues to advance satellite technology and expand its impact. With its commitment to excellence, safety, and innovation, ESSP is poised to shape the future of satellite services in Europe for many years to come.