Space Technology

Space Technology

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).

Space Technology

18 September 2026

Booklet: Overview space capabilities

Royal NLR works closely with industry and government to design satellites, payloads and launchers systems, as well as subsystems, such as thermal control systems, electronics and antennas. We also invest in state-of-the-art facilities to accelerate our research and develop new space capabilities by leveraging our expertise in aerospace-qualified lightweight composite structures, multi-metal additive manufacturing, and the effective use of Earth observation and satellite navigation data for both civil and military applications.

04 March 2026

Clearing the skies: why space debris demands action now

As the number of satellites in orbit grows, so does the challenge of keeping space safe and sustainable. What was once a vast and largely empty domain is rapidly becoming congested with hazardous debris. Without coordinated action, the very infrastructure that underpins modern society is at risk. The growing debris problem requires collective efforts — including the Zero Debris Charter — aimed at securing the future of space.

Ariane 62 and 64 European launch systems.
Platform System Design

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.