A new name has emerged on the global map of significant space research centers: Dübendorf, Switzerland. On December 10, 2024, Starlab announced plans to establish a facility at the Innovationspark located on the site of a military airfield.
Starlab, a collaboration among Airbus, Mitsubishi, Northrop Grumman, and Lufthansa, is developing new satellite modules intended to operate at approximately 400 kilometers above Earth. These satellites will enable astronauts to conduct scientific experiments and synthesize novel chemical substances in microgravity.
The introduction of Starlab is seen as a transformative moment for Zurich's research landscape. Carmen Walker Späh, the Director of Economic Affairs, highlighted that attracting such 'lighthouse companies' was a long-term goal. The investment details remain undisclosed, but conditions for Starlab are reportedly favorable.
With the establishment of Starlab, alongside the Space Hub at the University of Zurich and ETH Zurich's Space focus area, Zurich is positioning itself as a leading hub for space research. Oliver Ullrich, Director of the Space Hub, emphasized the city's emerging role in the new space race.
Starlab aims to facilitate research projects that explore the effects of microgravity on living cells, among other areas, making space-based experiments more efficient and cost-effective. The potential applications span biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and medical technology, where unique opportunities arise from conducting experiments in space.
Financially, the exploration of space is becoming increasingly promising. Ullrich noted that the cost of sending one kilogram of cargo to a satellite might soon drop to around $100, thanks to reusable rockets. Starlab's satellites are expected to enter mass production, further driving down costs and making near-Earth space experiments more accessible.
The World Economic Forum estimates that the space economy could reach an annual economic potential of approximately $1.8 trillion by 2035. If Starlab succeeds, the Canton of Zurich could significantly benefit from this economic growth.
The International Space Station (ISS), operational since 2000, is nearing the end of its lifespan and is scheduled for decommissioning in 2030. NASA has shifted its focus to private solutions for post-ISS operations, with Starlab competing alongside other private ventures.
Manfred Jaumann, responsible for the new station's development at Airbus, believes Starlab holds a competitive advantage due to its innovative design. The satellites will be constructed from stainless steel instead of expensive aluminum or titanium, enhancing durability against harsh space conditions. Additionally, new heavy-lift rockets will allow for entire satellite transport, reducing launch costs by 80%.
While Starlab's facility in Dübendorf will primarily serve as a ground station for future missions, the development timeline is tight, with a first satellite launch planned for 2029. Any delays could push the next attempt to 2030, underscoring the urgency of the project.