National Space Technology Hub Launches in Mullingar, Ireland

The official opening of the ESA Phi-Lab at Irish Manufacturing Research (IMR) in Mullingar, Ireland, took place on February 13, 2026, marking a significant step in the country’s ambition to become a key player in Europe’s space economy. This facility will serve as a national platform for space technology development, aiming to enhance collaboration between government, industry leaders, and academic institutions.

The establishment of the ESA Phi-Lab aligns with a broader commitment from the Irish government to the European Space Agency (ESA), which includes an investment of €170 million over the next five years. This funding will support the development of technologies relevant to space and advanced manufacturing sectors.

Bridging Research and Commercial Needs

The ESA Phi-Lab initiative focuses on accelerating the commercialization of innovative research. By addressing the needs of the commercial sector, the lab will mature technologies in various fields, including advanced manufacturing, materials discovery, artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and robotics.

During the launch, Barry Kennedy, CEO of IMR, emphasized the strategic importance of the facility: “This facility positions Ireland at the forefront of European space-enabled innovation, where advanced manufacturing, AI, and data-driven technologies can be developed, tested, and commercialized for global impact.” He highlighted that the aim is to convert world-class research into tangible economic and societal benefits.

The ESA Phi-Lab has already begun supporting its first two companies, Mbryonics and Ubotica Technologies, both of which were selected through a competitive application process. A second open call for projects is expected to launch in the upcoming months, inviting both established space-active companies and those new to the sector to participate, with expert guidance available throughout the application process.

Strengthening Europe’s Space Sector

The importance of funding technology development was echoed by Dietmar Pilz, Director of Technology at ESA and Head of the European Space Research and Technology Centre. He stated, “ESA Phi-Lab in Ireland is a powerful example of how Europe is strengthening its technology by bringing cutting-edge research closer to industrial applications.” He noted that this initiative aims to enhance the competitiveness of the European space sector by ensuring that innovations developed for space provide real benefits to industry and society.

According to Philip Thomas, head of the ScaleUp Programme division in ESA’s commercialisation, industry and competitiveness directorate, the ESA Phi-Lab in Ireland will empower companies to maximize their commercial potential. “Through being part of the ScaleUp Phi-Lab network, the ESA Phi-Lab in Ireland is able to help companies in Ireland and across Europe to reach their full commercial potential,” he explained.

Since the launch of Ireland’s National Space Strategy for Enterprise in 2019, the number of space-active companies collaborating with the ESA in Ireland has increased to 120. This upsurge demonstrates the growing interest and commitment to developing a robust space sector in the country.

The establishment of the ESA Phi-Lab at IMR represents a substantial investment in Ireland’s future as a vital player in the European space landscape, fostering innovation and collaboration across multiple sectors.