Empowering Systems Engineering Through Semantic Approaches

ABSTRACT Systems engineering (SE) is increasingly centered on advancing from model‐based systems engineering (MBSE) to semantic‐based systems engineering (SBSE) and further integrating Digital Twin technologies. This evolution is driven by the development and use of ontologies, which provide the flexibility needed to address key challenges in MBSE, such as resolving semantic ambiguities and improving data exchange. The European Space Agency (ESA) exemplifies this shift, with numerous initiatives to improve cross‐disciplinary collaboration and data integration, positioning SE at the heart of these efforts. By incorporating modular domain ontologies and embracing semantic technologies, ESA is driving new collaborative design capabilities within SE. This paper reviews the critical role of semantic approaches in empowering SE practices and delves into their application, benefits, and future research directions. Key ESA initiatives are highlighted, alongside a demonstration of a mission that simulates this approach on a small scale.