Astri Polska - the latest milestone in the Astrium Central Europe (ACE) programme

 

December 14, 2010  

Astrium, has created a new joint venture in Poland – Astri Polska - with CBK PAN, the Space Research Centre of the Polish Academy of Sciences. 

The joint venture is the latest achievement in the Astrium Central Europe (ACE) programme, a key part of Astrium’s strategy in cooperating with Central European countries that joined the European Union (EU) within the last decade and want to become part of the European Space Agency by building strong space industries. 

Astri Polska will focus on developing space technologies and applications for Polish and international customers, especially in the areas of spacecraft electronics, photonics and materials, as well as in Earth observation, navigation and telecommunications services. A key focus for the joint venture will be developing tailored satellite applications for end users, particularly in the areas of disaster management and security. 

Hugues de Galzain, Senior Vice President of Astrium responsible for International Affairs said: “The Space Research Centre is a key pillar of Poland’s space community and was a natural partner for Astrium as we look to enhance the country’s space ambitions. The ACE programme is testament to Astrium’s strong commitment in creating successful new partnerships throughout Central Europe.” 

Astrium will actively promote Astri Polska across Europe to establish strong links with both the continent’s space industry and wider space community. 

The ACE programme has enabled Astrium to form strong links with some of the newest EU member states, who are currently defined as European Cooperating States (ECS) within ESA. Through the ACE programme Astrium is working closely with ECS such as Hungary, Estonia, Romania and Poland to facilitate the development of space programmes in these countries as they work towards full ESA membership.