This Standard defines the regulatory aspects that apply to the elements and processes of liquid propulsion for launch vehicles and spacecraft, solid propulsion for launch vehicles and spacecraft and electric propulsion for spacecraft. The common requirements for the three types of space propulsion are written in the ECSS-E-ST-35 document. The specific requirements for each type of propulsion are given in ECSS-E-ST-35-01, ECSS-E-ST-35-02 and ECSS-E- ST-35-03. It specifies the activities to be performed in the engineering of these propulsion systems and their applicability. It defines the requirement for the engineering aspects such as functional, physical, environmental, quality factors, operational and verification.

Other forms of propulsion (e.g. nuclear, nuclear–electric, solar–thermal and hybrid propulsion) are not presently covered in this issue of the Standard.

This standard applies to all types of space propulsion systems used in space applications, including:

This standard may be tailored for the specific characteristic and constrains of a space project in conformance with ECSS-S-ST-00.