This workshop is intended to be the meeting place for simulation developers and users, particularly in the space simulations field. The intention is to share valuable information on the progress in methodology and tools and also on practices in applying simulation to meet project objectives. The workshop offers an opportunity to launch new ideas and to receive inspiring input to plan the future work. ESA expects also to receive feedback from the National Agencies and industry on new R&D activities and on the expected role of ESA within the European space simulation community.

Simulation is playing a key role in the new challenging Exploration and Science missions, which is currently acknowledged by ESA’s R&D programmes and industrial initiatives. Exploration missions with their complex architectures and the Science missions with stringent performance requirements create new challenges in the area of Modelling and Simulation. Increased complexity, interoperability and performance simulation are key elements. It is intended to put emphasis on these topics during the workshop.

Another area that will be covered is the standardisation of simulation in the broadest sense, like standards applicable to model portability, data visualisation including 3D graphics, simulator verification and validation and data exchange with other space engineering disciplines.