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From Vienna to Space: Start-up GateSpace Develops Satellite Propulsion Systems at Schwechat Airport

“Scientists discover the world that exists; engineers create the world that never was.” – This quote by physicist and aeronautical engineer Theodore von Kármán not only adorns the office wall of the Vienna-based startup GateSpace, but also clearly shapes its corporate culture.

Space Gate

© Monika Huemayer

Space Gate

© Monika Huemayer

The company, which is only four years old, develops state-of-the-art propulsion systems for satellites at its Schwechat Airport location, guided by a clear mission: to create technology that changes the world.

During an exclusive visit by the ACE community, the young space company provided exciting behind-the-scenes insights into its work. With currently 29 employees, the majority of whom come from technical disciplines, GateSpace deliberately focuses on engineering expertise in all areas, even in sales. Many team members come from TU Wien, while other specialists were recruited internationally. Vienna, and Schwechat in particular, have proven to be ideal locations for this.

The visitors were impressed by the combination of technical precision, innovative spirit, and passion that is palpable within the company. Not only are the actual satellite propulsion systems built in Schwechat: GateSpace also develops all the associated electronics and software entirely in-house. Particularly impressive was the look inside the cleanroom, where components undergo final testing before their deployment in space. Some of the tested parts are set to launch into space shortly on a SpaceX rocket.

During the visit, co-founder Moritz Novak spoke about the company’s beginnings in the TU Space Team. A total of seven people founded the startup together and had to overcome numerous challenges along the way, ranging from obtaining regulatory approvals for special windowless rooms to setting up their own testing facilities. Today, GateSpace can even fire up its propulsion systems at the Port of Vienna and test them under realistic conditions.

The participants were particularly impressed by the highly specialized manufacturing and the fact that technologies are being developed in Vienna that will one day control and maneuver satellites in orbit.

Those who were unable to attend the exclusive on-site event will soon have another opportunity: On May 21, Moritz Novak will once again answer questions during an online expert talk. Under the title “From Campus to Orbit – Entrepreneurship Lessons from the New Space Economy,” he will discuss the company’s founding story, challenges, and lessons learned from the New Space industry. For more information and to register, visit the TU Wien Academy event page.