Space Factory @ ESA Phi-Lab

Schwechat, June 24, 2026 — With the opening of the new Space Factory at ESA Phi-Lab Austria, Lower Austria is taking the next important step in expanding its space-tech hub. The new development and testing infrastructure offers startups, research institutions, and technology companies state-of-the-art facilities for the development, prototyping, and testing of space technologies.

Four New Space Companies Launch at Vienna Schwechat Airport

At the same time, four additional innovative companies — Confident Space, Fantana, Gebauer & Griller, and tenics—were welcomed to the site. They expand the existing space ecosystem with expertise in the fields of radiation monitoring, Earth observation, and satellite software.

“With our Economic Strategy 2030+, we are making targeted investments in the technologies that will create the jobs and value of tomorrow. Space is one of these strategic fields of the future. The new Space Factory strengthens the innovative capacity of our companies and creates optimal conditions for research to translate into economic success,” emphasized Governor Johanna Mikl-Leitner.

The ESA Phi-Lab Austria opened in 2024 as Europe’s first ESA Phi-Lab and has since developed into an important center of excellence for the industrialization of European space technology. Its focus is on promoting innovative projects and supporting startups and companies in the development of new technologies.

New Space Factory with High-Tech Infrastructure at the Airport

The new Space Factory at Vienna Schwechat Airport complements the existing facilities with shared development and testing infrastructure. The equipment includes, among other things, modern 3D printing systems, electronics workstations, a climate chamber, cleanroom workstations, and flexible workshop and collaboration spaces. The goal is to shorten development times, lower barriers to entry, and further strengthen collaboration within the space tech ecosystem.

“The four new space startups presented today are a great addition to the space hub at the airport, and more companies will follow. This dynamic growth confirms that we’re on the right track with our strategy. At AirportCity, we offer the ideal location where ideas, talent, and companies can collaborate seamlessly and inspire one another. The new Space Factory strengthens the existing innovation ecosystem at the site and creates synergies that turn research into successful business models. Thanks to the work of Accent and the ESA Phi Lab, we can expect more space-tech companies to set up shop here shortly,” emphasizes Dr. Günther Ofner, CEO of Flughafen Wien AG.

With companies like GATE Space and R-Space—which have already received support from ESA Phi-Lab Austria and are currently preparing key in-orbit demonstrations—the location’s potential is already evident today. The most recent call for proposals from ESA Phi-Lab Austria also generated significant international interest, underscoring Lower Austria’s growing importance within the European space sector.

“The Space Factory provides exactly the infrastructure that young space companies need to develop and test their technologies. Easy access to professional development and testing facilities allows innovations to be implemented more quickly and fosters new collaborations,” explains Michael Moll, Managing Director of ESA Phi-Lab Austria.

Four new high-tech companies: Confident Space, Fantana, Gebauer & Griller, and tenics

The newly established companies further expand the location’s range of offerings: Confident Space develops radiation monitoring systems for small satellites; Fantana works on innovative Earth observation solutions; Gebauer & Griller develops cables and cable systems for automotive, industrial, and aerospace applications; and tenics develops highly reliable software for satellite missions.

“Our goal is to further expand Lower Austria as an international hub for space, high-tech startups, and technology-driven value creation. The new Space Factory is an important milestone in this effort and will sustainably strengthen the international visibility of our innovation hub,” Mikl-Leitner concluded.

Vienna Schwechat Airport: AirportCity Is the Ideal Location for Space Industry Companies

In partnership with ESA and accent, AirportCity at Vienna Schwechat Airport offers the perfect setting for companies in the space industry. Thanks to its proximity to the European Space Agency’s (ESA) Phi Lab, Austrian high-tech companies have excellent opportunities to participate in international projects. Thanks to its modern infrastructure—including extensive office, conference, and commercial spaces, accommodations, and local amenities—as well as excellent transportation links to highways, trains, and buses, and its proximity to downtown Vienna, the airport location offers optimal conditions for companies with an international focus. As an international transportation hub, the airport facilitates global market access and offers innovative solutions for companies that rely on worldwide connectivity and efficient logistics processes. Over 23,000 people are employed at approximately 250 companies at the airport site.