The main goal of this project is the creation of a European supply chain for state-of-the art CMOS imagers. As identified by both ESA and the EC, there is a need for such a supply chain for CMOS imagers for space applications which uses solely European (and hence ITAR-free) sources. This goal will be realized using the proposed consortium as all partners have excellent know-how and track record in the expertise fields required.A second goal of the project is to push the performance of CMOS imagers and match the requirements for the (typically very demanding) space applications. Hence large area (much larger than commercial imagers) high sensitivity imagers will be developed using stitching technology and backside thinning. A key element here is the backside passivation process using laser annealing.The outcome of this project is a CMOS imager design and manufacturing platform that can be used by the space industry (ESA, CNES, satellite manufacturers, ... ) for their future space imager needs. However, it will as well serve (and will be open for) other high-end imager needs in e.g. medical or security applications.