221 space research institutes worldwide
Space Atlas lists 221 space research institutes in 56 countries. The most represented are United States (50), Spain (16), Canada (13), France (12), Portugal (10). Each profile shows the organisation's headquarters, other sites, sectors and links.
United States (50)
- Alaska Satellite Facility (ASF), University of Alaska Fairbanks · Research Institution · Fairbanks
UAF Geophysical Institute centre operating polar satellite ground stations and the NASA SAR data archive (DAAC) for Earth science.
- Arizona Space Institute, University of Arizona · Research Institution · Tucson
University of Arizona institute in Tucson — coordinates the university's space science, space mission and space industry partnerships.
- Bay Area Environmental Research Institute (BAERI) · Research Institution · Moffett Field
Non-profit research institute at NASA Ames Research Park supporting Earth and space science researchers in partnership with NASA.
- Berkeley SETI Research Center (BSRC) · Research Institution · Berkeley
UC Berkeley Astronomy Department centre searching for technosignatures from radio to optical wavelengths; hosts Breakthrough Listen science.
- Blue Marble Space Institute of Science (BMSIS) · Research Institution · Seattle
Seattle non-profit research institute and scientist community working on astrobiology, planetary science and space science education.
- Catalina Sky Survey (CSS) · Research Institution · Tucson
NASA-funded near-Earth object survey at the University of Arizona LPL in Tucson — discovers and tracks asteroids for planetary defence.
- Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian (CfA) · Research Institution · Cambridge
Astrophysics research centre of Harvard and the Smithsonian — builds space instruments and runs the Chandra X-ray Center for NASA.
- Center for Astrophysics, Space Physics & Engineering Research (CASPER), Baylor University · Research Institution · Waco
Baylor University research centre in Waco — studies space and complex plasmas, astrophysics and space-related engineering with hypervelocity and plasma labs.
- Center for Space Plasma and Aeronomic Research (CSPAR), University of Alabama in Huntsville · Research Institution · Huntsville
University of Alabama in Huntsville research centre — studies heliophysics, space plasmas and the solar wind, supporting NASA heliophysics missions.
- Colorado Center for Astrodynamics Research (CCAR) · Research Institution · Boulder
University of Colorado Boulder research centre — studies orbit determination, satellite geodesy, GNSS and remote sensing from space.
- Configurable Space Microsystems Innovations and Applications Center (COSMIAC), University of New Mexico · Research Institution · Albuquerque
University of New Mexico aerospace research centre — works on small satellites, space networking, radiation effects and space cybersecurity.
- CSIS Aerospace Security Project · Research Institution · Washington
Think-tank programme at CSIS — analyses space security and counterspace developments and publishes the annual Space Threat Assessment.
- Draper (Charles Stark Draper Laboratory) · Research Institution · Cambridge
American non-profit engineering laboratory — develops guidance, navigation and control systems and avionics for NASA, lunar landers and national security space.
- Earth & Planets Laboratory, Carnegie Science · Research Institution · Washington
Carnegie Science research laboratory in Washington DC — studies planetary science, astrobiology, cosmochemistry and exoplanets.
- Florida Space Institute (FSI) · Research Institution · Orlando
Orlando-based space research institute of the University of Central Florida — conducts planetary science, space technology and workforce programmes.
- Green Bank Observatory · Research Institution · Green Bank
NSF radio astronomy observatory in West Virginia — operates the Green Bank Telescope, the world's largest fully steerable radio telescope.
- Hawaiʻi Space Flight Laboratory (HSFL), University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa · Research Institution · Honolulu
University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa lab within HIGP that designs, builds and operates small satellites for science and education missions.
- High Altitude Observatory (HAO), NSF NCAR · Research Institution · Boulder
NSF NCAR laboratory in Boulder — researches the Sun, solar wind and upper atmosphere to understand space weather and solar-terrestrial physics.
- Interplanetary Initiative, Arizona State University · Research Institution · Tempe
Arizona State University pan-university space programme in Tempe — runs the Interplanetary Lab and research on human space futures and exploration.
- IPAC, California Institute of Technology · Research Institution · Pasadena
Caltech science and data centre — operates NASA archives (IRSA, NASA Exoplanet Archive, NED) and supports infrared and space astronomy missions.
- Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) · Research Institution · Laurel
US university-affiliated research centre — builds and operates NASA science spacecraft (New Horizons, DART, Dragonfly) and defence space systems.
- Keck Institute for Space Studies (KISS), Caltech · Research Institution · Pasadena
Caltech think tank funded by the W. M. Keck Foundation — runs study programmes and workshops that develop new space mission and technology concepts.
- Lowell Observatory · Research Institution · Flagstaff
Private astronomical research institution in Flagstaff — studies planets, asteroids and the outer solar system; site of Pluto's discovery.
- Lunar and Planetary Laboratory (LPL), University of Arizona · Research Institution · Tucson
University of Arizona planetary science lab and department in Tucson — leads and builds instruments for NASA planetary missions.
- Maurice J. Zucrow Laboratories, Purdue University · Research Institution · West Lafayette
Purdue University propulsion laboratory — runs rocket, combustion, hypersonics and energetic-materials test facilities near Purdue Airport, Indiana.
- MIT Haystack Observatory · Research Institution · Westford
MIT radio science research centre — studies space weather, the upper atmosphere and radio astronomy, and develops VLBI geodesy systems.
- MIT Lincoln Laboratory · Research Institution · Lexington
MIT-managed federally funded R&D centre — its Space Systems and Technology division develops space surveillance sensors, satellites and payloads.
- Mitchell Institute Spacepower Advantage Center of Excellence (MI-SPACE) · Research Institution · Arlington
Space policy research centre of the Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies — publishes studies and hosts forums on US military spacepower.
- National Institute of Aerospace (NIA) · Research Institution · Hampton
Nonprofit research and graduate education institute adjacent to NASA Langley — conducts aerospace research, develops new technologies and inspires the next generation of space s…
- National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) · Research Institution · Charlottesville
US NSF radio astronomy facility operator — runs the VLA and VLBA and North American ALMA operations from its Charlottesville headquarters.
- Naval Center for Space Technology (NCST), U.S. Naval Research Laboratory · Research Institution · Washington
US Navy research centre at NRL — designs, builds and tests spacecraft, payloads and space robotics for military, civil and intelligence customers.
- NOIRLab (National Optical-Infrared Astronomy Research Laboratory) · Research Institution · Tucson
NSF's center for ground-based optical/infrared astronomy — manages the Gemini Observatory, Vera C. Rubin Observatory, SOAR Telescope and Kitt Peak National Observatory for the g…
- Pacific International Space Center for Exploration Systems (PISCES) · Research Institution · Hilo
Hawaii space research programme of UH Hilo — develops in-situ resource utilisation technologies using volcanic terrain as a planetary analog.
- Physical Science Laboratory (PSL), New Mexico State University · Research Institution · Las Cruces
New Mexico State University research lab in Las Cruces — works on aerospace systems, telemetry, scientific ballooning support and national security.
- Planetary Science Institute (PSI) · Research Institution · Tucson
US private non-profit research institute — scientists study Solar System bodies and take part in NASA planetary missions.
- SETI Institute · Research Institution · Mountain View
US non-profit research institute near NASA Ames — studies the origins and prevalence of life and intelligence in the universe, including SETI searches.
- Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum · Research Institution · Washington
Smithsonian museum in Washington DC — holds the largest aviation and space collection and conducts planetary science research.
- Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) · Research Institution · San Antonio
US non-profit applied R&D organisation — its space science and engineering divisions lead NASA missions and build spacecraft instruments.
- Space Dynamics Laboratory (SDL) · Research Institution · North Logan
Utah State University-owned University Affiliated Research Center — builds small satellites, space sensors and payloads for US defence and NASA missions.
- Space Radiation Laboratory (SRL), Caltech · Research Institution · Pasadena
Caltech laboratory building cosmic-ray and energetic-particle instruments for space missions such as ACE, STEREO, Voyager and Parker Solar Probe.
- Space Research Institute, Georgia Institute of Technology (SRI) · Research Institution · Atlanta
Georgia Tech interdisciplinary research institute launched in 2025 — connects campus and GTRI space research in spacecraft, exploration and space science.
- Space Science and Engineering Center (SSEC), University of Wisconsin–Madison · Research Institution · Madison
University of Wisconsin–Madison research centre — develops satellite meteorology, Earth and planetary remote-sensing instruments and satellite data systems.
- Space Science and Engineering Laboratory (SSEL), Montana State University · Research Institution · Bozeman
Montana State University laboratory in Bozeman — students design, build and fly CubeSats and space science instruments.
- Space Solar Power Project (SSPP), Caltech · Research Institution · Pasadena
Caltech research project developing ultralight modular structures, photovoltaics and wireless power transfer to collect solar power in space.
- Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI) · Research Institution · Baltimore
Science operations centre for NASA's Hubble and James Webb Space Telescopes — manages science operations, data archives and astronomical research for humanity's premier space-ba…
- Space Weather Technology, Research and Education Center (SWx TREC), University of Colorado Boulder · Research Institution · Boulder
University of Colorado Boulder centre — develops space weather research, forecasting technology and education in partnership with government and industry.
- The Aerospace Corporation · Research Institution · El Segundo
Independent nonprofit providing technical expertise and analysis for national security space programs — advises the US Space Force, NRO, NASA and commercial space on systems eng…
- Translational Research Institute for Space Health (TRISH) · Research Institution · Houston
NASA-funded virtual institute at Baylor College of Medicine — translates terrestrial biomedical advances into practical space health solutions for long-duration human spaceflight.
- Universities Space Research Association (USRA) · Research Institution · Columbia
Non-profit consortium of 100+ universities advancing space science and technology — manages research programs, institutes and facilities for NASA and DoD across astrophysics, pl…
- West Virginia Robotic Technology Center (WVRTC) · Research Institution · Fairmont
WVU research centre in Fairmont — develops and tests robotics, machine vision and relative navigation for NASA Goddard satellite servicing.
Spain (16)
- Asociación Cosmic Research · Research Institution · Barcelona
Student association developing low-cost suborbital rockets for peaceful applications.
- Centro Astronómico Hispano en Andalucía (CAHA) — Calar Alto Observatory · Research Institution · Gérgal
Spanish astronomical observatory in the Sierra de los Filabres, Almería — operates 1.23, 2.2 and 3.5 m telescopes; run by CSIC and the Junta de Andalucía.
- Centro Avanzado de Tecnologías Aeroespaciales (CATEC) · Research Institution · La Rinconada
Andalusian aerospace technology centre — conducts R&D in materials, additive manufacturing, avionics and robotics for aeronautics and space.
- Centro de Astrobiología (CAB) · Research Institution · Torrejón de Ardoz
Spanish CSIC–INTA joint research centre — studies the origin and evolution of life in the Universe and builds instruments for planetary missions.
- Centro de Estudios de Física del Cosmos de Aragón (CEFCA) · Research Institution · Teruel
Aragonese public research foundation in Teruel — runs the Javalambre Astrophysical Observatory and the J-PLUS and J-PAS sky surveys for cosmology research.
- CTTC · Research Institution · Castelldefels
Non-profit research institution focused on advanced ICT technologies for space and connectivity.
- Eurecat · Research Institution · Cerdanyola del Vallès
Technology centre with expertise across advanced manufacturing, health, digital and energy sectors.
- Fundació i2CAT · Research Institution · Barcelona
Non-profit research and innovation centre focused on advanced digital technologies.
- Gran Telescopio Canarias (GRANTECAN) · Research Institution · Breña Baja
Spanish public company in La Palma — built and operates the 10.4 m Gran Telescopio CANARIAS at the Roque de los Muchachos Observatory.
- ICE-CSIC · Research Institution · Cerdanyola del Vallès
Develops theoretical models and technologies to understand the universe — its formation, evolution and behaviour.
- ICFO · Research Institution · Castelldefels
World-leading photonics research centre with applications in space optical technologies.
- Institut d'Estudis Espacials de Catalunya (IEEC) · Research Institution · Barcelona
Research centre covering astrophysics, cosmology, planetary science, Earth observation and space engineering.
- Institut de Ciències del Cosmos UB (ICCUB) · Research Institution · Barcelona
Interdisciplinary research centre for cosmology, astrophysics and particle physics at the University of Barcelona.
- Instituto de Astrofísica de Andalucía (IAA-CSIC) · Research Institution · Granada
Spanish CSIC astrophysics institute in Granada — conducts astronomy research and builds space-borne instruments for ESA and NASA missions such as JUICE and PLATO.
- Instituto de Astrofísica de Canarias (IAC) · Research Institution · San Cristóbal de La Laguna
Spanish astrophysics research institute — operates the Teide and Roque de los Muchachos observatories and develops instrumentation for ground and space astronomy.
- Port d'Informació Científica (PIC) · Research Institution · Bellaterra
Scientific-technological centre specialised in data-intensive research for physics and space sciences.
Canada (13)
- Athabasca University Geophysical Observatory (AUGO) · Research Institution · Athabasca
Athabasca University auroral observatory in northern Alberta — optical and magnetic instruments for aurora, proton-aurora and space weather research.
- C-CORE · Research Institution · St. John's
Canadian applied R&D centre in St. John's — develops satellite remote sensing, SAR analytics, ice monitoring and smallsat ground station technology.
- Centre de recherche en astrophysique du Québec (CRAQ) · Research Institution · Montreal
FRQNT-funded strategic research cluster bringing together astrophysicists at Quebec universities, including instrument and exoplanet research groups.
- Centre for Research in Earth and Space Science (CRESS), York University · Research Institution · Toronto
Canadian university research centre at York University's Lassonde School — conducts space science and instrument work for planetary and atmospheric space missions.
- Dominion Radio Astrophysical Observatory (DRAO), NRC Herzberg · Research Institution · Kaleden
National Research Council radio observatory near Penticton — runs radio telescopes and produces the daily F10.7 solar radio flux index used in space weather.
- Dunlap Institute for Astronomy & Astrophysics, University of Toronto · Research Institution · Toronto
University of Toronto institute developing astronomical instrumentation and conducting research in astronomy and astrophysics, with public outreach.
- LASSENA – Laboratory of Space Technologies, Embedded Systems, Navigation and Avionics, ÉTS Montréal · Research Institution · Montreal
ÉTS Montréal research laboratory working on space technologies, resilient GNSS navigation, avionics and embedded systems, including CubeSat projects.
- Observatoire du Mont-Mégantic (OMM) · Research Institution · Notre-Dame-des-Bois
Astronomical observatory on Mont Mégantic operated by Université de Montréal and Université Laval, with a 1.6 m telescope and instrument development.
- Outer Space Institute (OSI), University of British Columbia · Research Institution · Vancouver
UBC-hosted transdisciplinary network of space experts working on space sustainability, debris, security and governance research.
- Planetary and Space Science Centre (PASSC), University of New Brunswick · Research Institution · Fredericton
University of New Brunswick research centre in Fredericton — planetary geology and impact-crater research, NASA Regional Planetary Image Facility, Mars mission work.
- SuperDARN Canada – Institute of Space and Atmospheric Studies, University of Saskatchewan · Research Institution · Saskatoon
Canadian university space-physics group — operates the five Canadian SuperDARN HF radars monitoring the ionosphere and space weather from Saskatoon.
- Trottier Institute for Research on Exoplanets (iREx), Université de Montréal · Research Institution · Montreal
Université de Montréal institute for exoplanet research that develops astronomical instruments, including contributions to JWST, and runs outreach.
- Trottier Space Institute at McGill (TSI) · Research Institution · Montreal
McGill University interdisciplinary institute for astrophysics, planetary science and space research, formerly the McGill Space Institute.
France (12)
- Centre d'Études Spatiales de la Biosphère (CESBIO) · Research Institution · Toulouse
Toulouse joint research lab of CNES, CNRS, IRD, INRAE and the university — studies the continental biosphere using satellite remote sensing.
- ICARE Data and Services Center (AERIS/ICARE) · Research Institution · Villeneuve-d'Ascq
French CNES/CNRS/University of Lille data centre — processes, archives and distributes multi-satellite atmospheric data such as POLDER/PARASOL products.
- Institut d'Astrophysique Spatiale (IAS) · Research Institution · Orsay
French CNRS and Université Paris-Saclay lab — studies the Sun, planets and cosmology and develops space science instruments.
- Institut de Recherche en Astrophysique et Planétologie (IRAP) · Research Institution · Toulouse
French CNRS and Toulouse university lab — conducts space astrophysics and planetology and builds instruments such as SuperCam and SVOM payloads.
- IRT Saint Exupéry · Research Institution · Toulouse
Toulouse technological research institute — runs collaborative R&D in aeronautics, space and embedded systems, incl. laser ground-to-satellite optical links, with industry and a…
- Laboratoire Atmosphères, Observations Spatiales (LATMOS) · Research Institution · Guyancourt
French CNRS/UVSQ/Sorbonne research lab — builds space instruments (spectrometers, radars, mass spectrometers) to study planetary and Earth atmospheres.
- Laboratoire d'Astrophysique de Marseille (LAM) · Research Institution · Marseille
CNRS, Aix-Marseille University and CNES astrophysics lab in Marseille — builds space instruments such as Euclid's NISP spectrophotometer.
- Laboratoire d'Études Spatiales et d'Instrumentation en Astrophysique (LESIA) · Research Institution · Meudon
French CNRS/Observatoire de Paris laboratory in Meudon — designs and qualifies space instruments for astrophysics and planetary missions such as JAXA's MMX.
- Laboratoire d'Optique Atmosphérique (LOA) · Research Institution · Villeneuve-d'Ascq
French CNRS/University of Lille laboratory — leads satellite remote sensing science of aerosols and clouds, incl. the POLDER/PARASOL missions.
- Mercator Ocean International · Research Institution · Toulouse
Toulouse-based ocean forecasting organisation — operates the Copernicus Marine Service using satellite and in-situ ocean observations.
- Observatoire de la Côte d'Azur (OCA) · Research Institution · Nice
French astronomy and Earth sciences observatory in Nice — major role in ESA Gaia data processing and Euclid, hosts a CNES university space centre.
- ONERA – The French Aerospace Lab (ONERA) · Research Institution · Palaiseau
French national aerospace research centre — conducts aeronautics, space and defence research, including launcher, propulsion and space observation studies.
China (10)
- Aerospace Information Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences (AIRCAS) · Research Institution · Beijing
Chinese Academy of Sciences institute in Beijing — researches remote sensing, SAR, space electronics and Earth observation data systems, and runs satellite ground stations.
- CAST (China Academy of Space Technology) · Research Institution · Beijing
CASC's core subsidiary for spacecraft development — designs and manufactures China's major civil and commercial satellites including navigation, communication, Earth observation…
- Innovation Academy for Microsatellites of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (IAMCAS) · Research Institution · Shanghai
Chinese Academy of Sciences institute in Shanghai — designs and builds small satellites, including BeiDou navigation and science missions such as DAMPE.
- National Astronomical Observatories, Chinese Academy of Sciences (NAOC) · Research Institution · Beijing
Chinese Academy of Sciences astronomy institute in Beijing — builds and runs the ground application system and data downlink stations for the Chang'e lunar programme.
- National Space Science Center, Chinese Academy of Sciences (NSSC) · Research Institution · Beijing
Chinese Academy of Sciences institute — leads space science missions, space weather research and payload development for China's science satellites.
- Purple Mountain Observatory, Chinese Academy of Sciences (PMO) · Research Institution · Nanjing
Chinese Academy of Sciences astronomy institute in Nanjing — leads the DAMPE dark-matter and ASO-S solar observatory satellite missions.
- SAST (Shanghai Academy of Spaceflight Technology) · Research Institution · Shanghai
CASC subsidiary and major design and production centre for liquid rockets, air defense systems, satellite platforms and space transportation in Shanghai.
- Shanghai Institute of Technical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences (SITP) · Research Institution · Shanghai
Chinese Academy of Sciences institute in Shanghai — develops infrared and hyperspectral space payloads for Fengyun and Gaofen satellites, plus space cryocoolers.
- Technology and Engineering Center for Space Utilization, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CSU) · Research Institution · Beijing
Chinese Academy of Sciences centre in Beijing — runs the space utilisation system of China's crewed programme, planning and operating Tiangong station experiments.
- Xi'an Institute of Optics and Precision Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences (XIOPM) · Research Institution · Xi'an
Chinese Academy of Sciences optics institute in Xi'an — builds space cameras and remote-sensing optics, including Chang'e lunar mission cameras.
Portugal (10)
- +ATLANTIC CoLAB · Research Institution · Lisbon
Portuguese collaborative laboratory for the Atlantic — applies satellite remote sensing, Copernicus data and AI to ocean and coastal monitoring.
- AIR Centre – Atlantic International Research Centre · Research Institution · Angra do Heroísmo
Intergovernmental Atlantic research network based in the Azores — works on space, Earth observation, climate and ocean data for Atlantic countries.
- Associação RAEGE Açores – Santa Maria Geodetic Station · Research Institution · Vila do Porto
Azores space geodesy station on Santa Maria island — operates a 13.2 m VGOS radio telescope, GNSS receiver and gravimeter within the RAEGE network.
- CEiiA – Engineering and Product Development Centre · Research Institution · Matosinhos
Portuguese engineering and product development centre — designs small satellites such as AEROS MH-1 and runs space data and mission projects.
- Centro de Astrofísica da Universidade do Porto (CAUP) · Research Institution · Porto
Private non-profit astrophysics research association in Porto — hosts the Porto node of the IA and runs the Planetário do Porto.
- CTI Aeroespacial – Centro de Tecnologia e Inovação Aeroespacial · Research Institution · Guimarães
Portuguese aerospace technology and innovation centre — set up by the Air Force, CEiiA and GEOSAT; acquired the Atlantic Constellation's first SAR satellite.
- INESC TEC – Institute for Systems and Computer Engineering, Technology and Science · Research Institution · Porto
Portuguese technology research institute — develops space robotics and drones for ESA analog missions such as SOLIS100 and microgravity-tested robots.
- Instituto de Astrofísica e Ciências do Espaço (IA) · Research Institution · Porto
Portuguese national astrophysics and space science institute — conducts research on exoplanets, cosmology and space instrumentation, with nodes in Porto and Lisbon.
- Instituto de Telecomunicações (IT) · Research Institution · Aveiro
Portuguese telecom research institute — leads New Space Portugal, builds AIS/VDES antennas for the LUSIADA constellation and space radar at PASO.
- Space Radiation Environment and Effects Group (SpaceRad), LIP · Research Institution · Lisbon
LIP particle physics laboratory group in Lisbon — develops space radiation monitors and models, including RADEM on ESA's JUICE and BERM on BepiColombo.
Germany (8)
- Center of Applied Space Technology and Microgravity (ZARM), University of Bremen · Research Institution · Bremen
German microgravity research centre — University of Bremen institute operating the 146 m Bremen Drop Tower and researching fluid physics and space technology.
- DFKI Robotics Innovation Center · Research Institution · Bremen
Bremen research centre of the German Research Center for AI (DFKI) — develops autonomous rovers and robots for planetary exploration and in-orbit tasks.
- DLR (German Aerospace Center) · Research Institution · Cologne
Germany's national aeronautics and space research centre — conducts research across aerospace, transport and energy.
- European Southern Observatory (ESO) · Research Institution · Garching bei München
Intergovernmental astronomy organisation — builds and operates ground-based telescopes in Chile, including the VLT, ALMA partnership and the ELT.
- Fraunhofer Institute for High Frequency Physics and Radar Techniques (FHR) · Research Institution · Wachtberg
German Fraunhofer radar institute in Wachtberg — operates the TIRA space observation radar and developed the GESTRA space surveillance radar.
- GFZ Helmholtz Centre for Geosciences · Research Institution · Potsdam
German Helmholtz geoscience research centre — leads science data and operations for gravity missions such as GRACE-FO and GRACE-C and runs satellite laser ranging.
- Max Planck Institute for Solar System Research (MPS) · Research Institution · Göttingen
German Max Planck research institute — studies the Sun, planets, moons and small bodies and builds instruments for ESA and NASA space missions.
- Zentrum für Telematik e.V. (ZfT) · Research Institution · Würzburg
Würzburg non-profit research centre — develops CubeSats, satellite formation flying, VLEO communications and attitude control test facilities.
United Kingdom (6)
- Centre for Advanced Instrumentation (CfAI), Durham University · Research Institution · Durham
Durham University research centre — develops optical instruments, detectors and adaptive optics for ground and space telescopes, with space test facilities.
- London Institute of Space Policy and Law (ISPL) · Research Institution · London
London research and education institute — studies space policy and law and runs courses and seminars for policymakers and lawyers.
- North East Space Skills and Technology Centre (NESST) · Research Institution · Newcastle upon Tyne
Northumbria University space R&D and skills centre in Newcastle — £50m facility with satellite clean rooms and labs, Lockheed Martin as anchor tenant.
- Nottingham Geospatial Institute (NGI), University of Nottingham · Research Institution · Nottingham
University of Nottingham institute — researches satellite navigation and positioning (GNSS RTK, PPP, receivers) alongside remote sensing and geospatial science.
- RAL Space · Research Institution · Didcot
UK national space laboratory — STFC department at Rutherford Appleton Laboratory building instruments, testing spacecraft and doing space research.
- Satellite Applications Catapult · Research Institution · Didcot
UK's leading space innovation centre — supports 835+ companies with R&D facilities, satellite AIT, antenna testing, ISAM capabilities and business acceleration to grow the UK sp…
Argentina (5)
- Argentine-German Geodetic Observatory (AGGO) · Research Institution · La Plata
BKG–CONICET fundamental geodetic observatory near La Plata operating VLBI, satellite laser ranging, GNSS, gravimetry and atomic clocks.
- Complejo Astronómico El Leoncito (CASLEO) · Research Institution · San Juan
CONICET–UNLP–UNC–UNSJ astronomical complex in San Juan's Andes, with optical telescopes and solar/submillimetre instruments for space science.
- Instituto Argentino de Radioastronomía (IAR) · Research Institution · Berazategui
CONICET–CIC–UNLP radio astronomy institute with two 30 m antennas; contributes to Argentina's national space plan, satellite missions and launchers.
- Instituto de Astronomía y Física del Espacio (IAFE, CONICET–UBA) · Research Institution · Buenos Aires
Argentine research institute of CONICET and the University of Buenos Aires — studies space physics, astronomy and Earth observation from space, including SAR remote sensing.
- Instituto de Ciencias Astronómicas, de la Tierra y del Espacio (ICATE, CONICET–UNSJ) · Research Institution · San Juan
Argentine CONICET–UNSJ institute in San Juan — researches astrophysics, solar physics, aeronomy, space climatology and cosmochemistry.
Netherlands (5)
- ASTRON – Netherlands Institute for Radio Astronomy · Research Institution · Dwingeloo
Dutch NWO radio astronomy institute — builds and operates radio telescopes such as LOFAR and Westerbork and develops radio instrumentation.
- Joint Institute for VLBI ERIC (JIVE) · Research Institution · Dwingeloo
European research infrastructure consortium — correlates and supports very long baseline interferometry radio astronomy and spacecraft tracking.
- Royal Netherlands Aerospace Centre (NLR) · Research Institution · Amsterdam
Dutch aerospace research centre — develops and tests satellites, payloads, launch systems and small-satellite propulsion alongside aviation R&D.
- SRON Netherlands Institute for Space Research · Research Institution · Leiden
Dutch national space research institute — develops space instruments for astrophysics, Earth science and exoplanet research, part of NWO-I.
- TNO Space · Research Institution · Delft
Applied research institute developing optical instruments, detectors and systems for space science and Earth observation.
Austria (4)
- European Space Policy Institute (ESPI) · Research Institution · Vienna
Austrian space policy think tank in Vienna — provides independent analysis and research on European space policy, economics, law and security.
- FOTEC Forschungs- und Technologietransfer GmbH (FOTEC) · Research Institution · Wiener Neustadt
Austrian research subsidiary of FH Wiener Neustadt — develops FEEP electric and green chemical propulsion and runs propulsion test facilities for space.
- JOANNEUM RESEARCH – DIGITAL Institute for Digital Technologies · Research Institution · Graz
Austrian applied research institute in Graz — works on satellite communications and navigation, remote sensing analysis and vision systems for planetary rovers.
- Space Research Institute of the Austrian Academy of Sciences (IWF) · Research Institution · Graz
Austrian space science institute — builds magnetometers and on-board computers for ESA and NASA missions and runs satellite laser ranging in Graz.
Belgium (4)
- Royal Belgian Institute for Space Aeronomy (BIRA-IASB) · Research Institution · Uccle
Belgian federal research institute — studies planetary atmospheres and space weather and builds instruments for satellites and the ISS.
- Royal Observatory of Belgium (ROB) · Research Institution · Brussels
Belgian federal scientific institute — researches the Sun, space weather, planets and GNSS, and runs the Solar Influences Data Analysis Center.
- VITO Remote Sensing · Research Institution · Mol
Earth observation unit of the Flemish research institute VITO — processes satellite data, runs the Terrascope platform and PROBA-V user segment.
- von Karman Institute for Fluid Dynamics (VKI) · Research Institution · Sint-Genesius-Rode
Belgian international research institute — studies fluid dynamics incl. atmospheric re-entry, plasma wind tunnels and space propulsion.
Finland (4)
- Finnish Meteorological Institute Arctic Space Centre (FMI-ARC) · Research Institution · Sodankylä
Finnish research centre and satellite ground station — receives Earth observation data and hosts the National Satellite Data Centre and Sentinel ground station.
- Metsähovi Geodetic Research Station, Finnish Geospatial Research Institute (FGI) · Research Institution · Kirkkonummi
Finnish space geodesy station of the National Land Survey — operates satellite laser ranging, VLBI, GNSS and DORIS as a GGOS core site.
- Sodankylä Geophysical Observatory (SGO), University of Oulu · Research Institution · Sodankylä
Finnish geophysical observatory of the University of Oulu — studies near-Earth space and the ionosphere, operating radars and supporting EISCAT.
- VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland (VTT) · Research Institution · Espoo
Finnish state research centre — develops hyperspectral cameras and space instruments flown on Aalto-1, Reaktor Hello World and Kuva Space satellites.
Mexico (4)
- Instituto Nacional de Astrofísica, Óptica y Electrónica (INAOE) · Research Institution · San Andrés Cholula
Mexican public research centre in astrophysics, optics and electronics — offers space science and technology graduate programmes and develops small satellites.
- Laboratorio de Instrumentación Espacial (LINX), ICN-UNAM · Research Institution · Mexico City
UNAM space instrumentation lab — led the COLMENA lunar micro-robot mission and contributes to Mini-EUSO and nanosatellites such as NanoConnect-2.
- Laboratorio Nacional de Observación de la Tierra (LANOT) · Research Institution · Mexico City
Mexican national Earth observation laboratory at UNAM — receives and processes GOES and polar-orbit satellite data for agencies such as CONAFOR and CFE.
- Servicio de Clima Espacial México (SCiESMEX) / LANCE · Research Institution · Morelia
Mexico's space weather service and national laboratory at UNAM's Geophysics Institute — monitors solar activity and issues alerts to civil protection.
Switzerland (4)
- CSEM – Swiss Center for Electronics and Microtechnology · Research Institution · Neuchâtel
Swiss non-profit technology research centre in Neuchâtel — develops space mechanisms, ultra-stable lasers for ESA's LISA, atomic clocks and other flight hardware.
- International Space Science Institute (ISSI) · Research Institution · Bern
Swiss foundation in Bern — hosts international teams and workshops for interdisciplinary analysis of space mission data.
- Physikalisch-Meteorologisches Observatorium Davos / World Radiation Center (PMOD/WRC) · Research Institution · Davos
Swiss research institute in Davos — builds solar radiometers for space missions such as PROBA-3 and calibrates radiation instruments.
- Space Exploration Institute (SPACE-X) · Research Institution · Neuchâtel
Swiss non-profit planetary research institute in Neuchâtel — leads the CLUPI close-up imager for ESA's ExoMars rover and contributes to planetary missions.
Australia (3)
- Australian Astronomical Optics · Research Institution · North Ryde
Leverages 50 years of precision optics expertise for space — designs optical instruments, the Malya thermal infrared payload and advanced sensing systems for satellite missions.
- SmartSat Cooperative Research Centre (SmartSat CRC) · Research Institution · Adelaide
Australian space research consortium — funds industry–university R&D in satellite communications, intelligent satellite systems and Earth observation.
- Space Environment Research Centre (SERC) · Research Institution · Canberra
International research centre for space environment, space sustainability and laser tracking — operates the EOS Space Systems debris tracking laser at Mount Stromlo and develops…
Czech Republic (3)
- Astronomical Institute of the Czech Academy of Sciences (ASU CAS) · Research Institution · Ondřejov
Czech national astronomy research institute — studies the Sun, stars, galaxies and small Solar System bodies from its Ondřejov observatory.
- TOPTEC Research Centre, Institute of Plasma Physics of the CAS · Research Institution · Turnov
Czech special-optics research centre — designs and makes optics and mechanics for ESA missions such as Solar Orbiter's METIS telescope and ARIEL.
- VZLU AEROSPACE, a.s. (Czech Aerospace Research Centre) · Research Institution · Prague
Czech state aerospace research centre — provides space and aviation R&D and testing, and builds satellites such as VZLUSAT-2 in Prague-Letňany.
Italy (3)
- Centro Italiano Ricerche Aerospaziali (CIRA) · Research Institution · Capua
Italian Aerospace Research Centre — runs the national aerospace research programme PRO.R.A. with wind tunnels and space re-entry test facilities.
- Istituto di Astrofisica e Planetologia Spaziali (INAF-IAPS) · Research Institution · Rome
Italian space research institute of INAF — develops instruments and science for space astrophysics, planetary exploration and space weather missions.
- Istituto di Astrofisica Spaziale e Fisica Cosmica di Milano (INAF-IASF Milano) · Research Institution · Milan
Italian INAF space astrophysics institute in Milan — builds detectors, electronics and software for missions such as XMM-Newton, INTEGRAL, Euclid and Athena.
Poland (3)
- Łukasiewicz Research Network – Institute of Aviation (Łukasiewicz – ILOT) · Research Institution · Warsaw
Polish aerospace research institute in Warsaw — develops rocket propulsion and the ILR-33 AMBER suborbital rocket alongside aviation and UAV work.
- LunAres Research Station · Research Institution · Piła
Polish analog research habitat — hosts simulated lunar and Martian missions in a former military airport hangar in Piła.
- Space Research Centre of the Polish Academy of Sciences (CBK PAN) · Research Institution · Warsaw
Polish space research institute — builds scientific space instruments and conducts space physics, planetary and geodesy research in Warsaw.
Singapore (3)
- Centre for Remote Imaging, Sensing and Processing (CRISP), National University of Singapore · Research Institution · Singapore
NUS research centre operating Singapore's multi-mission satellite ground station — receives and processes Earth observation data for research and agencies.
- Satellite Research Centre, Nanyang Technological University (SaRC) · Research Institution · Singapore
Singapore university satellite centre at NTU — has designed, built and operated 13 satellites from CubeSats to microsatellites since XSAT in 2011.
- Satellite Technology and Research Centre (STAR), National University of Singapore · Research Institution · Singapore
Singapore university research centre set up by NUS and DSO — develops small satellites and distributed satellite systems such as the Lumelite series.
Sweden (3)
- EISCAT AB (EISCAT Scientific Association) · Research Institution · Kiruna
International ionospheric research organisation — operates incoherent scatter radars, including EISCAT_3D, in Sweden, Norway and Finland from Kiruna.
- Onsala Space Observatory (OSO) · Research Institution · Onsala
Swedish national radio astronomy infrastructure hosted by Chalmers — operates radio telescopes and a geodetic VLBI, GNSS and time station at Onsala.
- Swedish Institute of Space Physics (IRF) · Research Institution · Kiruna
Swedish government research institute — studies space plasma, atmospheric physics and the solar system, with head office at the Kiruna space campus.
Ukraine (3)
- Institute of Technical Mechanics of NAS of Ukraine and SSAU (ITM) · Research Institution · Dnipro
Ukrainian rocket and space research institute in Dnipro — studies launch vehicle dynamics, propulsion and space technology under the national academy and space agency.
- Lviv Centre of Institute of Space Research (LC ISR) · Research Institution · Lviv
Ukrainian space research centre in Lviv — branch of SRI NASU-SSAU conducting electromagnetic studies of space plasma and developing scientific instruments.
- Yuzhnoye State Design Office (KB Pivdenne) · Research Institution · Dnipro
Ukrainian state rocket and spacecraft design bureau — developed the Zenit and Cyclone launchers and Antares first stage, plus satellites.
Brazil (2)
- Centro de Rádio Astronomia e Astrofísica Mackenzie (CRAAM) · Research Institution · São Paulo
Mackenzie University research centre — studies solar physics, Sun-Earth relations, space weather and space geodesy with radio instruments, run with INPE.
- Instituto Nacional de Pesquisas Espaciais (INPE) · Research Institution · São José dos Campos
Brazilian national space research institute — develops satellites such as Amazonia-1 and CBERS and runs Earth observation, weather and space science programmes.
Chile (2)
- Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA) · Research Institution · Santiago
International radio astronomy observatory (ESO, NSF/NRAO, NINS/NAOJ) operating 66 antennas on the Chajnantor plateau in Chile's Atacama Desert.
- Las Campanas Observatory (LCO) · Research Institution · La Serena
Carnegie Institution for Science observatory in Chile's Atacama region, home of the twin 6.5 m Magellan telescopes and the future Giant Magellan Telescope.
Cyprus (2)
- Cyprus Space Research and Innovation Centre (C-SpaRC) · Research Institution · Nicosia
Cypriot space research infrastructure run by CSEO and designated COSPAR's International Space Innovation Centre — hosts R&D including Cyprus's first home-built satellite.
- ERATOSTHENES Centre of Excellence · Research Institution · Limassol
Cypriot Earth observation research centre — operates a satellite ground receiving station and atmospheric remote sensing station in Limassol.
Greece (2)
- BEYOND Centre of EO Research and Satellite Remote Sensing (NOA) · Research Institution · Athens
Earth observation centre at the National Observatory of Athens — provides satellite-based disaster monitoring services such as FireHUB and FloodHUB.
- Institute for Astronomy, Astrophysics, Space Applications and Remote Sensing (IAASARS), National Observatory of Athens · Research Institution · Penteli
Greek research institute of the National Observatory of Athens — works on space physics, space weather, astrophysics and satellite remote sensing.
Hungary (2)
- HUN-REN CSFK Konkoly Thege Miklós Astronomical Institute (Konkoly Observatory) · Research Institution · Budapest
Hungarian astronomical institute of HUN-REN CSFK in Budapest — studies stars and exoplanets and contributes to ESA space missions such as CHEOPS, PLATO and Ariel.
- HUN-REN Wigner Research Centre for Physics (Wigner RCP) · Research Institution · Budapest
Hungarian physics research centre in Budapest — its Space Physics and Space Technology department builds spacecraft instruments and co-developed Philae's on-board computer.
Latvia (2)
- Institute of Astronomy, University of Latvia · Research Institution · Riga
Latvian astronomy institute — operates the Riga satellite laser ranging station (ILRS 1884) and Baldone observatory, with space-debris tracking work.
- Ventspils International Radio Astronomy Centre (VIRAC) · Research Institution · Ventspils
Latvian radio astronomy institute of Ventspils University of Applied Sciences — operates the Irbene radio telescopes for VLBI, space research and satellite work.
Norway (2)
- Kjell Henriksen Observatory (KHO), UNIS · Research Institution · Longyearbyen
Norwegian auroral observatory of the University Centre in Svalbard — hosts optical instruments from 23 institutions for aurora, airglow and space physics research.
- Norwegian Centre for Space Weather (NOSWE) · Research Institution · Tromsø
Norwegian space weather centre at UiT's Tromsø Geophysical Observatory — Norway's ISES regional warning centre for geomagnetic and ionospheric conditions.
Peru (2)
- Instituto de Radioastronomía (INRAS), Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú · Research Institution · Lima
Peruvian university research institute — works on radio astronomy, ionosphere and radar studies and artificial satellites, having built Peru's first PUCP nanosatellites.
- Radio Observatorio de Jicamarca (ROJ), Instituto Geofísico del Perú · Research Institution · Lima
Peruvian equatorial radio observatory run by IGP — operates a 50 MHz incoherent-scatter radar to study the ionosphere and space weather.
Romania (2)
- Institute of Space Science (ISS) · Research Institution · Măgurele
Romanian space research institute — works on astroparticle physics, space plasma and space technologies, contributing to ESA and NASA missions.
- National Institute for Aerospace Research "Elie Carafoli" (INCAS) · Research Institution · Bucharest
Romanian national aerospace research institute — runs aeronautics and space research, wind tunnels and engineering for ESA programmes.
South Korea (2)
- KARI (Korea Aerospace Research Institute) · Research Institution · Daejeon
Korea's space research institute developing launch vehicles, satellites and space exploration systems.
- Korea Astronomy and Space Science Institute (KASI) · Research Institution · Daejeon
South Korean government research institute — conducts astronomy, space science, space weather and space geodesy research and missions.
United Arab Emirates (2)
- Propulsion and Space Research Center (PSRC), Technology Innovation Institute · Research Institution · Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi research centre of TII — develops rocket and electric propulsion and space exploration tech, incl. the UAE's first liquid rocket engine.
- Sharjah Academy for Astronomy, Space Sciences and Technology (SAASST) · Research Institution · Sharjah
University of Sharjah space academy — runs CubeSat, space weather, radio astronomy and propulsion labs, observatories and a planetarium.
Bolivia (1)
- Laboratorio de Física Cósmica de Chacaltaya, Universidad Mayor de San Andrés (UMSA) · Research Institution · La Paz
Bolivian high-altitude cosmic-ray laboratory of UMSA on Mt Chacaltaya — studies cosmic rays and space weather with Japanese partners (ALPACA, LAGO).
Bulgaria (1)
- Space Research and Technology Institute, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences (SRTI-BAS) · Research Institution · Sofia
Bulgarian space research institute — conducts space physics, Earth and planetary remote sensing and aerospace systems research in Sofia.
Colombia (1)
- Centro de Investigación en Tecnologías Aeroespaciales (CITAE), Fuerza Aérea Colombiana · Research Institution · Cali
Colombian Air Force aerospace research centre in Cali — runs the FACSAT nanosatellite programme and its ground station at the Military Aviation School.
Costa Rica (1)
- Centro de Investigaciones Espaciales (CINESPA), Universidad de Costa Rica · Research Institution · San José
University of Costa Rica space research centre — studies space weather, planetary atmospheres, cosmic rays and astrophysics, and runs radio-telescope projects.
Croatia (1)
- Centar za svemirsku i inovativnu tehnologiju (CSIT) · Research Institution · Sisak
Croatian public technology centre in Sisak — provides infrastructure and R&D support for space and innovative industry, incl. radiation shielding and chip design.
Estonia (1)
- Tartu Observatory, University of Tartu · Research Institution · Tõravere
Estonian space research institute of the University of Tartu — works on astrophysics, remote sensing and space technology including student satellites.
Ethiopia (1)
- Ethiopian Artificial Satellite Technology Research Center · Research Institution · Addis Ababa
Ethiopian university space research centre developing CubeSat technology and satellite engineering capacity — trains Ethiopian space engineers and supports the national satellit…
India (1)
- Physical Research Laboratory (PRL) · Research Institution · Ahmedabad
Autonomous Department of Space research unit in Ahmedabad — conducts space, planetary, solar and atmospheric science and builds mission instruments.
Japan (1)
- Japan Space Systems (J-spacesystems) · Research Institution · Tokyo
Japanese space systems foundation — conducts R&D, test and promotion work on satellites, Earth observation data and QZSS utilisation.
Kenya (1)
- Regional Centre for Mapping of Resources for Development (RCMRD) · Research Institution · Nairobi
Intergovernmental geo-information centre in Nairobi — provides Earth observation and mapping services to eastern and southern African member states.
Luxembourg (1)
- European Space Resources Innovation Centre (ESRIC) · Research Institution · Belvaux
Luxembourg research and innovation centre for space resources — set up by LSA and LIST with ESA as partner to support in-situ resource utilisation R&D and startups.
Nigeria (1)
- African Regional Centre for Space Science and Technology Education – in English Language (ARCSSTE-E) · Research Institution · Ile-Ife
UN-affiliated Nigerian space education centre at Obafemi Awolowo University — runs postgraduate diplomas in remote sensing, satcom and space science.
Pakistan (1)
- National Center of GIS and Space Applications (NCGSA) · Research Institution · Islamabad
Pakistani national research centre — HEC consortium led by IST covering remote sensing, GNSS and small satellite technology labs.
Serbia (1)
- Astronomical Observatory of Belgrade (AOB) · Research Institution · Belgrade
Serbian astronomy research institute — runs a Research Unit for Space Science and Technologies and leads MOSAIC, Serbia's first scientific CubeSat.
Slovakia (1)
- Astronomical Institute of the Slovak Academy of Sciences (AISAS) · Research Institution · Tatranská Lomnica
Slovak national astronomy research institute — studies the Sun, interplanetary matter, stars and small bodies from Tatra mountain observatories.
Slovenia (1)
- Centre of Excellence for Space Sciences and Technologies (SPACE-SI) · Research Institution · Ljubljana
Slovenian space R&D centre — developed the NEMO-HD microsatellite and operates ground stations for remote sensing and satellite communications.
South Africa (1)
- South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO) · Research Institution · Cape Town
South African national radio astronomy facility — operates MeerKAT and HartRAO and leads the country's Square Kilometre Array work.
Taiwan (1)
- Center for Space and Remote Sensing Research (CSRSR), National Central University · Research Institution · Taoyuan
Taiwanese university research centre — receives and processes satellite imagery and conducts remote sensing and space science research.
Thailand (1)
- National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand (NARIT) · Research Institution · Chiang Mai
Thai national astronomy institute — tracks space objects and debris and develops satellite hardware with the Thai Space Consortium.
Turkey (1)
- TÜBİTAK Space Technologies Research Institute (TÜBİTAK UZAY) · Research Institution · Ankara
Turkish national space R&D institute in Ankara — designs, builds and tests satellites incl. RASAT, GÖKTÜRK-2 and İMECE.
UAE (1)
- NSSTC (National Space Science and Technology Center) · Research Institution · Al Ain
UAE's national centre for space science research — conducts scientific research in space physics, planetary science and astronomical observation within UAE University.
Uganda (1)
- UARI (Uganda Astronomical Society / Space Research Initiative) · Research Institution · Kampala
Uganda's space science research initiative based at Makerere University — promotes astronomy, space education and Earth observation capacity building across East Africa.
Venezuela (1)
- Fundación Centro de Investigaciones de Astronomía y Tecnologías Aplicadas "Francisco J. Duarte" (CIDATA) · Research Institution · Mérida
Venezuelan state centre for astronomy, astrophysics and space sciences — operates the Llano del Hato national observatory and an optics technology centre.