Inspired by space: Getting smart ideas off the ground
Space start-ups in Switzerland enjoy the support of ESA BIC Switzerland, a business incubation centre set up by ESA and run by ETH Zurich. The programme helps researchers take their first steps towards commercial success.
Start-up funding
The ESA Business Incubation Centre Switzerland (ESA BIC CH) supports start-ups that either adapt space technology for use on Earth or modify terrestrial technology for applications in space. ESA BIC Switzerland is operated by ETH Zurich in conjunction with the European Space Agency (ESA). Funding from the ETH Foundation has helped numerous entrepreneurs launch their own start-up. This support includes Pioneer Fellowships and grants from the Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Programme (ESOP).
Automated construction machinery
ETH spin-off external page Gravis Robotics develops technology that brings large construction machines to life. The company’s product range includes a walking excavator that can autonomously navigate rough terrain and operate in hazardous environments – potentially even on the Moon.
Ultrafast and robust
ETH spin-off external page Menhir Photonics specialises in ultrafast, ultraprecise lasers. The company’s lasers are so robust that they can withstand vibrations, impacts and variations in ambient pressure. This makes them ideal for use in the aerospace industry. Other applications include research labs and telecommunications.
Robots on patrol
Spin-off company external page Ascento develops robots for the security sector. These agile, two-wheeled robots use space data for orientation and navigation. They are designed to patrol large sites, day and night, in all weather conditions. The robots get help from features like smart software, a 360-degree camera, a thermal-imaging camera and LEDs.
The mobility of the future
ETH spin-off external page Transcality builds digital twins of transportation systems. With the help of these complex real-time models, it is possible to analyse urban traffic flow and simulate future mobility concepts. The technology is based on satellite data and methods from the field of artificial intelligence.
Data to boost crop yields
ETH spin-off external page Terensis combines satellite images from space with growth models to build a digital twin of crops in the field. This virtual image of reality shows the condition of cultivated plants in real time and combines this information with local meteorological data. On this basis, it is possible to predict crop yields and to forecast weather risks such as drought or frost.
Better battery performance
ETH spin-off external page BTRY develops rapid-charging solid-state batteries that can perform in extreme temperatures. They can withstand very high heat levels, such as those reached in sensors that monitor for steam leaks. But they are also suitable for use at very low temperatures – in equipment for transporting medicines, for instance, or in systems used in space.
Metal foam for heat management
ETH spin-off external page Apheros produces metal foams for a range of applications, including thermal management. With their extremely large surface area, porous microstructure and high thermal conductivity, these foams are more efficient than conventional cooling solutions. Combined with their lightweight nature, this makes them ideal for potential space applications.
