European Space Agency fosters space technology research
The European Space Agency (ESA) has just launched a Networking and Partnering Initiative (NPI) to increase cooperation between the Agency, European universities, research institutes and the private sector. Through the new initiative, ESA wants to enhance research in advanced technologies with space applications and take advantage of the potential 'spin-ins' for space. These could come from technologies developed in the fields of consumer electronics and material sciences, as well as the new domains of nano and micro technology. The NPI will support technology development in selected universities and research institutes, with a preference for new ideas or concepts originating in the non-space industrial or research sectors. The NPI will accept proposals for support in the following areas: - co-funding: the NPI can co-fund research for up to 50% or €30 000 per year for a doctorate degree or post-doctoral investigations; - access to ESTEC laboratories: NPI participants will be able to use the facilities at ESA's European Space Research and Technology Centre (ESTEC) in the Netherlands for a minimum of 6 and a maximum of 12 months; - technical support: NPI participants will have access to ESA experts with whom they can discuss proposal concepts and verify their relevance and applicability to space; - networking - NPI participants will be able to search for potential partners for further cooperation and build 'innovation networks' through links provided by ESA. The idea of networking and partnering originates in the potential of technology developed for space to have significant 'spin-offs' for non-space applications. The very advanced technologies developed for industrial or domestic applications can also generate 'spin-ins' for use in space. From microcomputers to fogless ski goggles and enriched baby food to pacemakers, the 'spin-offs' from space can be found in every area of our lives. But in recent years the gap between space technologies and the technologies used in industrial or domestic applications has widened, with, for example, the advanced technology found in mobile phones and digital cameras exceeding some of the technology used in satellites. According to Jörg Wehner, the NPI Programme Manager, 'By intensifying its interaction with university departments and research institutes, ESA hopes to strengthen their links with space institutions and industry so as to enable them to embark upon space-related technology research. Many universities and institutes could extend their research activities and interaction in space technologies, and make a vital contribution to meeting the long-term needs of Europe's space programme.'