R&D cases
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Explore our R&D cases
NLR is actively involved in various research projects and programmes in the Netherlands, Europe, and globally. As an independent aerospace research institute, we conduct applied research, focusing on a practical approach and innovative solutions. These R&D cases provide an insight into the diverse range of research activities and the projects we have been involved.
30 September 2026
R&D case: Space Situational Awareness for a safer space environment
The use of the space domain is becoming increasingly important, leading to a surge in satellite launches for various purposes. Currently, around 35,000 space objects larger than 10 cm are being monitored, including approximately 18,500 active satellites, in order to predict close encounters, detect anomalies, and avoid collisions. Understanding the orbital mechanics and characteristics of these objects is vital to ensure a safe and sustainable future space environment. This is the focus of Space Situational Awareness (SSA).
31 August 2026
R&D case: Streamlining validation in ATM using remote simulations
Project: VISORS (Validation Infrastructure Supporting Remote Simulations)
23 June 2026
R&D case: Hydrogen-electric propulsion for climate-neutral regional aviation
Project: HEROPS (Hydrogen-Electric Zero Emission Propulsion System)
29 May 2026
R&D case: Integrated interface solution for ATM and U-space systems
Project: ENSURE (ATM-Uspace Interface and Airspace Reconfiguration Service)
20 April 2026
R&D case: Next-gen fuselage and tail designs for hydrogen-powered aircraft
Project: FASTER-H2 (Fuselage, Rear Fuselage and Empennage with Cabin and Cargo Architecture Solution validation and Technologies for H2 integration)
17 March 2026
R&D case: Radiation-hardened RISC-V processors for space applications
Project: TRISTAN (Together for RISC-V Technology and Applications)
25 February 2026
R&D case: Wind tunnel modelling for Europe’s Ariane 6 launch system
The development of the Ariane 6 launcher was geared towards creating a reliable, flexible, and competitive European launch system. NLR played an important role in this endeavour by providing wind tunnel models at various development stages.