From science fiction to space innovation

From science fiction to reality: space elevators, asteroid mining and more. Swedish researchers and companies collaborate with global partners to push the boundaries of space innovation.

Europe
Insights

Satellites monitoring the planet

Projects such as Climate TRACE use AI and satellite data to measure emissions globally in near real-time. Data is downloaded at the Esrange Space Center in Kiruna, northern Sweden, where Swedish researchers contribute to analysis and processing. International partners enable extensive comparisons and standardisation, creating new opportunities for effective climate monitoring and environmental governance worldwide.

Solar power in orbit

The European Space Agency explores solar power in orbit through the SOLARIS project, aiming to transmit energy wirelessly to Earth around the clock. Swedish companies, such as Beyond Gravity, develop the computers and separation systems needed to deploy and operate future space power stations, in close collaboration with international technical teams.

Laser technology for asteroid mining

At Luleå University of Technology, groundbreaking laser-based technology is being developed that can break down materials without physical contact. This enables resource extraction in microgravity and forms part of international research projects for future space mining. Swedish research leadership combines with global expertise to solve complex engineering challenges.

Supermaterials for future space elevators

Within the EU project Graphene Flagship at Chalmers University of Technology, research focuses on ultra-strong materials that could be key to future space elevators. Swedish researchers contribute specialised expertise, and collaboration with international partners drives the development of materials with exceptional strength and lightness.

Managing space debris

ESA’s Clear Space-1 is the first mission to actively remove space debris. Swedish OHB is responsible for propulsion and final assembly of the “space sweeper,” and collaboration with international engineering teams demonstrates how global partnerships make it possible to tackle complex problems in space. The solution also opens the door for future maintenance, repair, and upgrades of satellites in orbit.

Film produced for the 2025 Polhems Prize, Sweden’s oldest engineering award, presented by Engineers of Sweden, in collaboration with Vinnova, Sweden’s innovation agency.

Looking for swedish partners?

Collaborations between Swedish researchers, companies, and international actors make future innovations possible faster and more efficiently. Sweden has an innovation ecosystem where academia, industry, and civil society work closely together – offering unique opportunities for global actors to develop solutions that improve both people’s lives and the planet.