Human Exploration Control Center (HECC)
The Human Exploration Control Center (HECC) is integrated into the German Space Operations Center (GSOC). It is currently under development and is planned to evolve from the Columbus Control Center (Col-CC). The goal is to establish a future control center for all human spaceflight missions, encompassing the Col-CC while also supporting upcoming lunar and potential Mars missions.
In addition to ongoing ISS operations, the ground segment already supports NASA’s Artemis missions by providing data from the Orion spacecraft to the involved European engineering centers. At the same time, preparations are underway within the HECC to support further Artemis missions, for which the space operations center in Oberpfaffenhofen is intended to take on a central role in Europe. This includes supporting Orion spacecraft in data processing and mission operations. Another key focus lies on contributions to so-called “lunar architecture elements” — core infrastructure and system components required for sustainable, long-term lunar missions. In this way, the HECC makes a significant contribution to the preparation and execution of future crewed and uncrewed missions to the Moon.
The development of the HECC has been ongoing since around 2021, while further expansion and the required infrastructure are currently being planned and implemented. Initial missions have already begun in spring 2026, with full operational capability of the new control center expected around 2030.
Overall, the HECC significantly strengthens Europe’s role in international space exploration and lays the foundation for sustainable exploration of the Moon and, in the long term, Mars.