Future Innovations is now a partner in the entrepreneurial initiative of the European Space Agency (ESA), aiming to triple the value of the Norwegian space industry within ten years. Ocean Autonomy Cluster is run by one Future Innovations, one of Norway's largest innovation companies.

"This is a very exciting opportunity, and I'm glad we get to be a part of it," says FI's CEO, Bjørn Damhaug. The initiative collaborates with the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU).

Eirik S. Sivertsen, project manager for small satellites at NTNU, expresses enthusiasm about this opportunity.

"This is important for Norway and relates to national capabilities. National control over satellite data is significant for everything from monitoring human activity to managing the cod population. NTNU's interest in this is to conduct research and development and educate candidates for the industry. Therefore, it is strategically important for NTNU to take a position in this initiative," emphasizes Sivertsen.

At NTNU's laboratory for small satellites, researcher Sivert Bakken showcases a satellite similar to HYPSO-1, NTNU's first research satellite launched into space in 2022. Using advanced camera technology, it can monitor algal blooms and pollution. The data is collected through an antenna on the roof of the Electro Building at Gløshaugen.

"Norway has a significant role in the space industry. We are at the forefront, and investing is natural to take this further," says Sivert Bakken. "When we have control over satellite data, we can also control how larger images are pieced together. Norway manages large areas, especially maritime areas, where satellite data contributes to increasing the value of other data collection," he points out.

Completing the Ocean Space Vertical

For Future Innovations, the investment in space technology is a natural extension of their extensive activities related to the ocean.

"We are already leaders in ocean technology, and space technology will give us even more power in this area, where satellite data plays a crucial role. This includes everything from autonomy and communication to mapping and surveillance. Access to data, experts, and technology from world-leading environments through ESA will open enormous opportunities for innovation and creativity. This initiative will contribute to strengthening the innovation environment in connection with Nyhavna and along our coastal region," says Bjørn Damhaug.

"The ESA Business Incubator and our relation to ESA are important steps for us to complete the Ocean Space Vertical - from projects and services on the sea floor to the surface, and now in space. Autonomous solutions rely on satellite data for navigation, position, communication, and other needs. So this will be a welcoming service in our toolbox that we can provide for our members in Ocean Autonomy Cluster," says Frode Halvorsen, Cluster manager for Ocean Autonomy Cluster. 

Facts

• Kjeller Innovation and Future Industry and other partners will be part of the ESA Business Incubation Centre Norway 2.0 program in 2024.
• The incubator's goal is to triple the value of the Norwegian space industry within ten years (from 11 to 33 billion NOK) by assisting 40 new startups and creating 450 new high-tech jobs.
• Companies accepted into ESA BIC gain access to financial support, technical expertise, and resources and facilities from ESA.

Why space technology?

• Satellites are essential for fundamental societal tasks, monitoring five billion points annually in Norway. This includes surveillance of floods, landslides, seas, shipping traffic, meteorology, water reservoirs, etc. Satellite data plays a crucial role in managing large maritime areas and the Arctic, where Norway has extensive interests.
• Space technology is a vital part of the observation pyramid; simultaneous monitoring of the same area at multiple levels (satellites, drones, autonomous boats, and underwater drones) provides more knowledge (e.g., about ocean currents, weather phenomena, emissions, and algal blooms). This can lay the foundation for an entirely new industry, value creation, and job opportunities.
• Space technology is relevant for climate monitoring, communication, intelligence, preparedness, military operations, agriculture, fisheries, and numerous other societal areas.