A groundbreaking collaboration was presented today at Vienna-Schwechat Airport: The first European ESA Phi-Lab opened its doors in the new premises of the space company Enpulsion. The project was presented to the public with the participation of prominent personalities such as State Governor Johanna Mikl-Leitner, LH Deputy Stephan Pernkopf, Federal Minister Leonore Gewessler, ESA Director General Josef Aschbacher and airport board member Günther Ofner.

State Governor Mikl-Leitner emphasized the importance of the airport as a connection to the world and emphasized that the new Phi-Lab now also makes the airport a gateway to the infinite expanses of space. She described the Phi-Lab as a center of excellence for space technology that will take the European innovation hub of space research and space-tech companies to a new level. Mikl-Leitner also underlined Lower Austria's long-standing engagement with the topic of space technology and emphasized the role of Wiener Neustadt as a location for research institutions and companies.

LH deputy Stephan Pernkopf pointed out that although space may seem far away, it is getting closer every day. He emphasized the importance of the new Phi Lab as a step towards exploring the frontiers of space and applying the latest scientific findings in areas such as satellites, aviation and navigation. These applications are beneficial for both people and the economy and contribute to security by not leaving sensitive know-how exclusively to other countries.

Federal Minister Leonore Gewessler highlighted the close cooperation between research, innovation, industry and ESA and emphasized the Climate Protection Ministry's goal of further strengthening Austria's innovative and competitive space sector. She emphasized the importance of new ideas and innovations as well as the creation of added value and jobs in Austria.

ESA Director General Josef Aschbacher explained that the ESA Phi Lab Austria will be part of a network of twelve ESA Phi Labs in Europe, which will provide innovative projects and businesses with direct access to a variety of technology areas. He highlighted the importance of collaboration between different actors with different areas of expertise and highlighted the possibility of creating breakthrough innovations.

Airport board member Günther Ofner emphasized Vienna Airport's role as a promoter of networking and an accompanying partner for start-ups in its own Innovation Center. He emphasized the importance of the ESA Phi Lab as a new partner for AirportCity, which is an ideal operating and production location for companies with its excellent accessibility, international networking and diverse range of services.