Tyndall National Institute, based at UCC, has announced Atlantic Technological University (ATU) as the newest member of the European Space Agency (ESA) Space Solutions Ireland Consortium.
The ESA Space Solutions Ireland Consortium supports innovative space-focused startups and is a collaborative initiative designed to foster innovation, facilitate the transfer of space technology to non-space sectors, and nurture the development of high-potential companies.
Significant milestone
The inclusion of Atlantic Technological University marks a significant milestone in the expansion of this dynamic consortium, which is currently led by Tyndall in collaboration with Dublin City University, Maynooth University, Munster Technological University, Technological University of the Shannon and University College Dublin.
"It is an honor to welcome Atlantic Technological University today as a partner of the ESA Space Solutions Ireland Consortium. ATU’s addition to this strategic collaboration reflects government’s commitment to fostering innovation and supporting Ireland’s growing space ecosystem.
"I look forward to the opportunities this new partnership will bring in advancing Ireland’s role within the global space industry market.” said Minister of State for Small Businesses and Retail, Alan Dillon, on the occasion of ATU joining ESA Space Solutions Ireland Consortium.
“We are delighted to welcome Atlantic Technological University to the ESA Space Solutions Ireland Consortium,” said Peter Finnegan, ESA Space Solutions Ireland manager.
“Their addition to the consortium provides us with additional world-class incubation facilities and associated support services in the West and North-West of Ireland. ATU’s strong reputation for innovation, research excellence, and industry collaboration makes them an invaluable addition to our consortium. This partnership will undoubtedly strengthen our capacity to support early-stage client companies in a broad range of market sectors.”
Significant new opportunities
ATU brings a wealth of expertise and a strong track record in areas such as engineering, applied sciences, and business, aligning perfectly with ESA Space Solutions Ireland’s mission to accelerate growth and competitiveness in early-stage ventures. The synergy between ATU’s research strengths and ESA Space Solutions Ireland’s resources and networks is expected to generate significant new opportunities for startups and entrepreneurs.
As part of the ESA Space Solutions Ireland Consortium, Atlantic Technological University will play a critical role in sourcing, supporting, and scaling suitable start-ups that leverage the capability of space-related technologies for new terrestrial markets and expand the innovation ecosystem in Ireland.
Dr Orla Flynn, president of Atlantic Technological University, signalled the significance of ATU joining the ESA Space Solutions Ireland Consortium, said: “We are excited to join this prestigious network.
"ATU is committed to driving innovation and entrepreneurship, and our participation in the ESA Space Solutions Ireland Consortium will further amplify our impact. We look forward to collaborating with Tyndall National Institute and the other consortium partners to support the next generation of space entrepreneurs.”