SOLAR is a European payload installed on the Columbus External Payload Facility (CEPF) and mounted on a Columbus External Payload Adapter (CEPA). This paper first presents the SOLAR payload and mission and then focuses on the progressive achievements of the Belgian User Support and Operations Center (B.USOC) towards adapting its initial operational concept to ensure sustainable support to the SOLAR mission. SOLAR was among the very first Columbus payloads switched on after Columbus installation in February 2008 and continues to perform science as of today. To maximize science return during a foreseen three year mission, the B.USOC had to adapt to the various constraints of real-time operations such as 24/7 on-console staffing, ISS constraints and interaction with Columbus Control Centre. Two major axes of improvement have been followed: first adapting on-console staffing to the various operational modes, and improving the flexibility of SOLAR activities planning. © 2010 by Space Applications Services.