Airbus D&S is a major player in the New Space and Constellation market, as well as in the traditional Space sector. As such, we have gained extensive experience in dealing with automotive components. Automotive components are of tremendous and continuously increasing importance for current and future space programs. However, there are differences and challenges when using automotive parts in comparison to traditional Hi-Rel EEE components. We share our broad experience on handling the complete end-to-end supply chain process from the EEE manufacturer, to the final use of automotive components in space programs. There will be special focus on the definition of automotive components & standards, the motivation of using automotive components in space programs, the selection, procurement and use of automotive components in space programs and the main differences compared to traditional approaches.

To meet the opportunities and challenges arising in the context of future space systems, digital and mass manufacturing revolution, emerging space markets and high pressure to reduce cost; an ESA COTS Steering Committee was established in 2018. The Steering Committee objective has been to shape the future use of COTS in ESA’s programmes. The baseline approach taken has been to address three key questions: Where are we now?; Where do we want to go?, and How do we get there? This presentation will provide a status of the ESA COTS Initiative and the next steps being considered by ESA to implement a COTS strategy in the future

The COTS solutions proposed by Thales Alenia Space are obtained from the following matters : high heritage on Hirel and COTS components use a depth and focused analysis of major COTS manufacturers a very good knowledge of normative systems (ESA, NASA, AECQ, JEDEC,…) an improved design using products with very high electrical performances compared to HiRel products an internal risk mitigation system As a result, Thales Alenia Space developed, for COTS use in space applications. a disruptive approach with well-defined requirements/rules. This approach takes into account different technical aspects such as radiations, material&processes, reliability, …