ESA launches small-mission program

BBC : The European Space Agency is starting an “S-class” series of small science missions to complement its medium-class and large-class series. With the S-class, ESA hopes to encourage young scientists and to enable research teams from member states other than the big four—France, Germany, Italy, and the UK—to lead space missions. The first S-class project chosen, which must be ready for launch by 2017, will receive €50 million ($66 million). Realistic small projects could include compact space telescopes or fundamental physics experiments that require a weightless environment. “We want to hear from innovative people who’ve got a clever idea that doesn’t need a billion or half a billion euros, but can be done with a much smaller amount,” said Mark McCaughrean, head of ESA’s research and scientific support department.