European Space Agency Opens Deep-Tech Innovation Centre Switzerland

The European Space Agency (ESA) has inaugurated the European Space Deep-Tech Innovation Centre (ESDI) in Villigen, Switzerland, marking ESA's first physical presence in the country. Located near the Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI) at the Switzerland Innovation Park Innovaare, ESDI aims to accelerate the commercial adoption of deep technologies in quantum, data, and materials for space applications and broader European economic benefit. The centre fosters collaboration between ESA, Swiss institutions, and the private sector to bridge the gap between research breakthroughs and real-world space solutions, addressing Europe's skills gap and promoting innovation-led growth. The first platform under ESDI, ESA Phi-Lab Switzerland, is integrated with PSI and focuses on advancing space-relevant technologies. ESA Director General Josef Aschbacher emphasized that ESDI demonstrates a joint commitment to innovation, economic growth, and strengthening European leadership in deep tech. Additionally, ESA and the Swiss deep tech sector signed a memorandum of understanding to build a thriving community dedicated to deep tech for space.