Motivation
A key element for expanding small satellite capabilities is providing them thrusting capability. Many new space companies base their business models on satellite mobility for various applications, including formation flight, agile Earth observation, debris removal, and satellite lifetime extension services.
While propulsion systems for small satellites exist, the general smallsat community faces challenges in integrating and operating them due to complexity issues related to power, thermal management, and control. The ESA_Lab in Austria aims to continue the work of FHWN and FOTEC, serving as a nucleus for a larger consortium and network.
The lab's goals include developing advanced technology and contributing to future small satellite missions in both Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and beyond. Missions beyond LEO require propulsion systems with high delta-v capabilities, long lifetimes, and high radiation tolerance.
The ESA_Lab in Austria will act as a facilitator for projects and a point of contact for the consortium and other national and international parties interested in small satellites and related topics, aiming to advance the field and expand the capabilities of small commercial satellites for future space exploration and utilization.
Planned Activities
FOTEC and FHWN are aware that education, R&D and dissemination should not be perceived as separate elements but that the intensive and interdisciplinary fusion of all three is very important to foster scientific progress. Both organizations have been pursuing this approach for decades now. Being part of the ESA_Lab@ network as the first ESA_Lab in Austria opens them the opportunity to found and deepen novel links between ESA and the existing broad scientific network of FOTEC and FHWN as well as with new working groups, research institutions, companies, students, and the wider community. Thereby innovative research in the field of aerospace will be triggered and talent will be mobilized on a sustainable basis and with a clear label and development strategy in the background. Moreover, it will gain ESA visibility and approval within the Austrian society.
Education
FHWN offers a range of educational opportunities, including open lectures by field experts, research engagement, and support for students and employees to attend European Space Agency (ESA) workshops and summer schools. In recent years, FHWN has participated in various ESA-related events, such as "Fly your satellite" in 2021, Summer school Alpbach from 2013 to 2023, and the ESA Electric Propulsion Summer School in 2023.
FHWN actively promotes the Young Graduate Trainee (YGT) program at ESA, which offers valuable on-the-job experience in space mission development and operation. The one-year program is open to final-year master's students or recent graduates in engineering, sciences, or business disciplines. Several FHWN students have successfully participated in the YGT program, with some graduates subsequently finding employment at FOTEC.
In addition to these opportunities, ESA organizes biennial summer schools at ESTEC, with the most recent one in 2023 focusing on electric propulsion. The ESA_Lab in Austria aims to encourage more FHWN students to participate in future summer schools.
Research & Development
The ESA_Lab in Austria aims to establish a network for initiating new research proposals and projects in small satellite development. This includes designing, manufacturing, testing, launch readiness, and mission operation. The infrastructure will be expanded to accommodate these steps. Research at FHWN and FOTEC will focus on deep space small satellites, improving long-term stability, and integrating cost-efficient COTS components. Their expertise in advanced propulsion and diagnostic systems will be crucial.
The lab will facilitate research project initiation by forming consortia and fostering relationships with existing partners like MedAustron and AIT. Collaboration across Austria and Europe will enhance research development and knowledge transfer.
Long-term plans include launching increasingly complex small satellites every few years, with the potential goal of operating a propulsion-enabled constellation. This aligns with the Austrian space strategy 2030+ and defense ministry goals.
Dissemination & Public Outreach
FHWN and FOTEC actively share research findings through publications and conference attendance. They regularly publish in peer-reviewed journals and present at international conferences like IAC, SPC, IEPC, and COSPAR. The lab will host seminars to spread knowledge on space propulsion and small satellite technology.
Public engagement is a priority. The ESA_Lab in Austria will participate in events like "Lange Nacht der Forschung" and "Forschungsfest Niederösterreich," which attract thousands of visitors biennially. These events allow the public to interact with researchers and explore science up close. FOTEC and FHWN showcase their research, invite public into laboratories, and demonstrate space hardware development facilities. The lab will unify education, R&D, and dissemination efforts, increasing visibility of space research and ESA.
Competencies
FHWN offers Austria's only Aerospace Engineering education, established in 2012 with a focus on hands-on projects. In 2013, they launched a Nanosatellite program for CubeSat development. Their first satellite, PEGASUS, operated successfully for over 6.5 years until January 2024, providing valuable operational experience for students.
FHWN and FOTEC maintain a ground station with UHF and S-Band communications for satellite operations. Their next CubeSat, CLIMB, is planned for launch in 2025. The ESA_Lab in Austria aims to collaborate with Austrian and European amateur radio groups to educate youth about amateur radio and satellite communication.
FOTEC's Aerospace Engineering (AE) department boasts over 30 years of experience in space-related technology development. The department specializes in various areas of aerospace engineering, with a primary focus on space propulsion systems. They develop both electric and chemical propulsion systems, including the successful IFM NANO Thruster, which led to the creation of the spin-off company ENPULSION GmbH in 2017.
In addition to propulsion systems, FOTEC designs diagnostic systems and test stands for performance characterization. They are also working on green propellants, developing mono- and bi-propellant thrusters to replace the carcinogenic Hydrazine commonly used in the industry. The department has conducted extensive radiation testing campaigns, including TID tests at Seibersdorf Laboratories and SEE tests at MedAustron, to ensure the reliability and radiation safety of their systems.
FOTEC has expanded its expertise into Additive Layer Manufacturing (ALM) for space applications, creating hardware such as RF components, waveguides, filter housings, and antennas. They collaborate with major European companies like TESAT-Spacecom and Airbus Defense & Space in this field. Furthermore, the department is exploring In Situ Resource Utilization (ISRU), developing recycling and ALM processes for future Moon or Mars establishments.
The AE department's comprehensive knowledge spans measurement, control, high voltage, and power electronics, with a consistent focus on efficiency, performance, reliability, and radiation safety. FOTEC offers various services to customers and has an impressive portfolio of selected projects, publications, and developed prototypes and technologies, solidifying their position as a key player in aerospace engineering innovation.
