During a conversation with Mads Taul, Chief Operating Officer at Space Inventor, it becomes evident how much the European space industry is shaped by new, agile development approaches. Companies like Space Inventor demonstrate that technological independence and deeply integrated manufacturing have become key success factors in the evolving European NewSpace landscape. With around 75 employees, the Danish company develops and manufactures complete satellite solutions as well as individual subsystems and components – all under one roof.
“We are a deeply integrated company. From electronics design and SMT production to assembly and testing, everything happens in-house,” explains Mads Taul. This comprehensive in-house expertise exemplifies a broader trend gaining importance across Europe: shorter development cycles, enhanced quality assurance, and greater independence from global supply chains.
A current example is the Micro 8 platform, scheduled for launch in June 2025. It combines full system competence – from structure and electronics to communication and power modules – showing how modular architecture can make satellite development both more flexible and efficient.
In the space industry, control over development and production processes is increasingly becoming a decisive factor for competitiveness. Through consistent in-house manufacturing, companies can ensure the highest quality standards while remaining responsive to new mission requirements. Short decision paths, rapid prototyping cycles, and direct communication between engineering and production create a critical edge – especially for complex satellite projects where precision and long-term reliability are essential.
This vertical integration has become a hallmark of European NewSpace, enabling faster transitions from concept to orbit and reducing reliance on external supply chains.
The shift toward modular satellite architectures is transforming the entire industry. Platforms like the Micro 8 illustrate how standardized interfaces and flexible module configurations allow mission designs to be adapted in record time. This approach not only strengthens Europe’s technological autonomy but also fosters collaboration between manufacturers, subsystem suppliers, and integrators.
As a result, the European NewSpace ecosystem is evolving into a dynamic network of specialized companies working together on a new generation of satellites – smaller, more efficient, and more sustainable than ever before.
The combination of technical depth, advanced manufacturing capabilities, and growing collaboration among European space actors will remain a defining theme in the coming year. At Space Tech Expo Europe 2025, companies like Space Inventor, component suppliers, and system integrators will showcase how Europe is strengthening its position as an independent and innovative force in the global satellite market – driven by engineering excellence, reliability, and a shared vision for the future of space technology.
As in previous years, we at MSA Components will be exhibiting at Space Tech Europe. We look forward to engaging with our customers and partners to discuss upcoming missions, qualification needs and custom solutions for next-generation spacecraft and the space industry. Please visit our stand to meet us in person and discuss your projects and challenges, and find out how MSA Components can support you with the latest technological innovations on the market.
You will find us at booth number F11.
Of course, you are welcome to schedule an appointment with us beforehand.
PERSONAL CONSULTATION
From component selection to design-in: our sales team advises you in person, by phone, video call or on site. We will set aside 30 minutes for you.
PERSÖNLICHE BERATUNG
Von der Bauteilauswahl bis zum Design-in: Unser Vertriebsteam berät Sie persönlich, telefonisch, per Videokonferenz oder vor Ort. Wir nehmen uns 30 Minuten Zeit.