Participation in CCSDS

The Consultative Committee for Space Data Systems (CCSDS) was formed in 1982 by the major space agencies of the world to provide a forum for discussion of common problems in the development and operation of space data systems. It is currently composed of 11 member agencies, 33 observer agencies, and 141 industrial associates.

Since its establishment, it has been actively developing standards for data-systems and information-systems to promote interoperability and cross support among cooperating space agencies, to enable multi-agency spaceflight collaboration (both planned and contingency) and new capabilities for future missions. Additionally, CCSDS standardization reduces the cost burden of spaceflight missions by allowing cost sharing between agencies and cost-effective commercialization.

Member Agencies

A CCSDS Member Agency is a governmental or quasi-governmental organization that fully participates in all CCSDS activities and provides a commensurate level of support. Only one agency representing a given country or multinational organization may participate as a Member Agency of the CCSDS. A Member Agency shall adopt the Charter and must make best efforts to ensure the adherence of their agency’s internal standards to the applicable CCSDS Recommended Standards. Each CCSDS Agency must formally appoint its delegates to the CCSDS Technical Working Groups which that Agency supports. Member Agencies are also invited and encouraged to submit concept or position papers for discussion within the working groups.

Perhaps most importantly, Member Agencies have CCSDS voting rights, which are exercised through Member Agency Representatives. Member Agency Representatives make up the CCSDS Management Council (CMC), and meet twice a year to decide on the business and direction of the CCSDS.

For more information about becoming a CCSDS Member Agency, please contact the CCSDS Secretariat.

Associates

CCSDS Associates are scientific and industrial entities desiring a formal tie with the CCSDS, which allows them to more closely monitor and possibly influence the technical document development process.

Associates may participate in the working groups and in the document development process with the explicit approval of a sponsoring CCSDS Member or Observer Agency. Associates may also submit concept or position papers through their sponsoring Member or Observer Agency. Generally, the sponsor agency and CCSDS Commercial Associate shall be from the same country; however, multinational organizations (e.g., ESA) can sponsor a Associate provided that the Associate candidate is from a country affiliated with the sponsor agency.

To apply for a CCSDS Associate membership, please complete the appropriate application below and submit it to the appropriate Member or Observer Agency representative for sponsorship. Once sponsored, it will be forwarded to the Secretariat for final approval.

How to Become a Commercial Associate
Online Commercial Associate Application Form

Observer Agencies

A CCSDS Observer Agency is a governmental or quasi-governmental organization that participates in CCSDS activities at a reduced level of support. Observer Agencies are encouraged but not expected to make best efforts to ensure the adherence of their agency’s internal standards to the applicable CCSDS Recommended Standards. Observer Agencies are encouraged, but not required, to contribute resources to the working groups. Individuals from the Observer Agencies are invited to participate as technical experts. There is no limit on the number of national or multinational agencies that may participate as Observer Agencies.

For more information about becoming a CCSDS Observer Agency, please contact the Member Agency Representative associated with your agency’s home country or the CCSDS Secretariat.

Liaison Organizations

Liaison organizations are governmental or private activities with developmental programs in the areas of space-related data and information systems. Liaison participation in the working groups is encouraged but not required. When Liaison participation occurs, it usually will be focused on a particular subject of interest to the Liaison organization as opposed to standing involvement, which is not precluded.

For more information about becoming a CCSDS Liaison, please contact the CCSDS Secretariat.

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