Austria's first ESA_Lab@ UAS WN & FOTEC: Testing Facilities for Propulsion Systems and Small Satellite Development

Austria’s first ESA_Lab@ was established in 2024 at the University of Applied Sciences Wiener Neustadt (UAS WN) and its research subsidiary FOTEC. The initiative aims to strengthen collaboration between academia, industry, and the European Space Agency in the fields of small satellite development, propulsion systems, and diagnostics. FOTEC operates a comprehensive set of testing and diagnostic facilities covering electric and chemical propulsion as well as environmental qualification. Key capabilities include modular plasma diagnostics using Digital Faraday Cups (DFCs), Retarding Potential Analyzers (RPAs), adaptable thrust measurement systems, and vacuum facilities for propulsion testing. Unique infrastructure such as an atomic oxygen test facility enables exposure of complete satellites under realistic conditions. Complementary thermal-vacuum and mechanical testing capabilities support integrated qualification work-flows. This paper presents an overview of these facilities, their measurement principles, and recent test campaigns, highlighting their contribution to strengthening Europe’s space technology capabilities.