EPFL spin-off SWISSto12 leads ESA micro-geostationary satellite project

The first of its kind, a small but powerful European telecommunications satellite is to be developed under a contract signed between ESA and Vaud-based start-up SWISSto12.

SWISSto12, an EPFL spin-off based in Renens (canton of Vaud), will lead a consortium of European companies with established space technology and heritage.

Dubbed MicroGEO, this partnership project is part of ESA’s efforts to support fast, dynamic and agile private space firms to foster innovation and promote the competitiveness of the European space industry. The first satellite in this new product range is due for launch in 2025.

The slimline satellite will be placed into geostationary orbit some 36,000 kilometers above the Earth, from where it will stream data or broadcast television. Measuring just one cubic meter, the MicroGEO satellite will be one tenth the size of conventional geostationary satellites. Co-funded by ESA, the new MicroGEO Partnership Project offers an opportunity for high returns on investment to industry and participating states.

Because micro-geostationary satellites are small, lightweight and contain numerous innovations, they are much more affordable to build and launch.

This enables satellite operators to offer tailored regional or gap-filling services that would not be financially viable using large satellites. Micro-geostationary satellites can also offer a competitive replacement option for some legacy geostationary satellites that have reached the end of their lifetime.

Fostering cutting-edge innovation and space-based products

Emile de Rijk, Chief Executive Officer of SWISSto12 said: “We are very excited to work in partnership with ESA and bring together a new and agile product to the geostationary telecommunications market. Both the SWISSto12 and the ESA teams are going to work hand-in-hand to deliver the first successful MicroGEO satellite in orbit – and unleash the potential of this emerging class of telecommunication satellites. SWISSto12 is hereby developing a strong position as a European provider of MicroGEO satellites to service the needs of telecommunication operators.”

After raising CHF 18.1 million in 2019 to accelerate the commercialization of its 3D printed waveguides, SWISSto12 has continuously developed partnerships and its products. In 2022, the start-up was also selected by Lockheed Martin Space to develop advanced, 3D printed, phased array antennas for upcoming satellite missions.