ESA strengthens new innovation centre at the Paul Scherrer Institute
With the European Space Deep-Tech Innovation Centre (ESDI), the European Space Agency (ESA) is opening a new centre for space innovation in Switzerland. In close collaboration with the Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI), disruptive technologies in the fields of quantum research, materials research and data science will be promoted in order to advance space research and industrial utilisation.
With the opening of the ESDI, the ESA has taken a decisive step towards strengthening Swiss space research and development. Located in the immediate vicinity of the PSI in Park Innovaare, the ESDI will serve as a hub for new, ground-breaking technologies that are important for both space research and industrial applications in Switzerland and Europe.
Focus on quantum and materials research in the Phi-Lab
A central element of the ESDI is the Phi-Lab, which is headed by Jennifer Wadsworth and specialises in promoting innovative research projects. From 2025, targeted programmes in quantum and materials research will be financially supported here. Wadsworth emphasises the possibility that Phi-Lab brings together diverse teams from industry, start-ups and research to solve complex technological challenges that are almost impossible to implement with conventional funding measures.
Location advantages through Park Innovaare and PSI
The ESDI’s location in Park Innovaare, a new hub for high-tech innovation, provides access to advanced manufacturing facilities. In addition, the neighbouring PSI brings expertise in areas such as vacuum technology and radiation protection, which are already adapted to space conditions through the use of PSI particle accelerators. This synergy provides the ESDI and its partners with an infrastructure for prototype development and testing under realistic space conditions.
Strengthening the Swiss innovation landscape
With the ESDI, the ESA will further intensify its collaboration with Swiss innovation players. The support of the Swiss State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation (SERI) and the ETH Domain guarantees the sustainable development of this project. The planned opening ceremony in spring 2025 marks the official starting point for an era of closer ties between ESA, Swiss research and industry that could extend far beyond the space sector.
Long-standing partnership between ESA and PSI
The connection between ESA and PSI has a long tradition. PSI has been carrying out material tests as part of space research for many years. One example of this is the JUICE mission, in which the RADEM detector developed by PSI is used to analyse radiation conditions in the Jupiter system. Thierry Strässle, Chief of Staff at PSI, sees the ESDI as playing a crucial role for Switzerland: “The ESDI will be a central hub for space research and Switzerland’s high-tech ecosystem.”