Empa becomes new CSA partner– strengthening the Swiss New Space ecosystem
The Center for Space and Aviation Switzerland and Liechtenstein has gained another high-profile partner in Empa, thereby expanding its existing space and aviation expertise in the areas of materials development, manufacturing technologies, and quality assurance in space technology.
Bild: Empa
“With Empa, CSA gains a partner institution that stands for excellent research at the interface between basic science and application. Its expertise in the development of new materials and technologies for space is a great asset to our network,” says Prof. Dr. Elisabeth Stark, member of the CSA Foundation Board.
Among other things, Empa brings expertise in the development of amorphous metals, high-entropy alloys, and wear-resistant coatings designed for use under extreme conditions in space. In addition, Empa is working on thermoelectric materials for energy conversion in satellites and on the additive manufacturing of mechanically highly resilient lightweight components – a key area for future space missions. Empa is also setting new standards in reliability with lead-free soldering technologies for space electronics. “Space use places the highest demands on materials, processes, and system solutions – this is precisely where Empa's strength lies,” says Prof. Dr. Tanja Zimmermann, Director of Empa. ”As a new partner institution in the CSA, we look forward to working with the network to develop new research approaches, tap into transfer potential, and contribute our expertise to space and aviation applications in a targeted manner.”
“The inclusion of Empa in the CSA network exemplifies our ambition to unite Switzerland's leading technological forces in a future-oriented space ecosystem. Together, we are shaping Europe's role in the global New Space,” emphasizes Prof. Dr. Oliver Ullrich, Chairman Director of the CSA.
With Empa's accession, the CSA is further expanding its position as an innovation driver for the New Space Economy in Europe. Close cooperation with existing partners such as the Space Hub at the University of Zurich, Swiss Skylab, CFAC-HSG, and HSLU is creating new synergies – particularly at the Zurich Innovation Park on the grounds of the Dübendorf military airfield, which is increasingly establishing itself as a center for biotech, space life sciences, materials science, aviation, and space technology.