Satellite Equipment and Payloads
Proven Expertise In Precision Mechanisms, CFRP Structures, And Thermal Systems For Science And Earth Observation Programs.
Thrusted by Leaders in Space since 2009
Advancing Space Science and Earth Observation
We contribute to some of Europe’s most ambitious space missions, from exploring our solar system to monitoring our planet. Among our most relevant achievements are Solar Orbiter, where our technologies support the study of the Sun and its impact on space weather, and CHEOPS, dedicated to the precise characterization of exoplanets orbiting distant stars.
We also play a key role in ECRS, contributing to Earth radiation studies, and in SENTINEL-5 IOMSR, enabling advanced monitoring of atmospheric composition for climate and air quality. Through precision mechanisms, lightweight CFRP structures, and advanced thermal protection, Almatech ensures reliable performance in these flagship scientific and Earth-observation missions.
Almatech’s Flagship Achievements in Space
Science and Earth Observation missions
CHEOPS
Unlocking Exoplanet Secrets with Unmatched Structural Stability
- Ultra-stable telescope structure: Designed and developed the core of CHEOPS’s optical instrument.
- High-precision CFRP composite structure essential for mission success.
Sentinel-5 - IOMSR
Monitoring Earth’s atmosphere for climate
- Advanced composite struts and sandwich panels meeting stringent thermo-mechanical requirements.
- Four qualified and tested IOMSR FMs delivered to Airbus Defence and Space.
- Supporting the Sentinel-5 UVNS spectrometer in monitoring trace gases and aerosols to improve air quality forecasts and climate assessments.
Solar Orbiter
Mechanisms for Exploring the Sun
- STIX Instrument: Designed, developed, and tested the Detector Electronics Module (DEM).
- Precision Attenuator Mechanism (ATM): Integrated into the DEM to regulate incoming X-ray radiation.
- SPICE Instrument : Designed, developed, and delivered the Slit Change Mechanism (SCM).
FLORIS Calibration Unit (CU)
ESA’s FLEX Mission
- Reliable Design: Multi-level redundancy securing mission performance.
- Contaminant-free optical access for maintenance and checks.
- Integrated straylight suppression without doors or launch locks.
CHEOPS - The First Swiss-led Exploration Satellite
We were entrusted with the design and development of CHEOPS’s ultra-stable telescope structure the very heart of its optical instrument. As the mission’s main industrial partner, Almatech delivered the high-precision CFRP composite structure essential to its success. This achievement illustrates the continued confidence placed in Almatech by the University of Bern and the European Space Agency, highlighting our expertise in enabling groundbreaking space science
Solar Orbiter - STIX DEM and ATM
We designed, developed, and tested the STIX Detector Electronics Module (DEM) including its precision Attenuator Mechanism (ATM), housing the X-ray detectors and controlling radiation levels critical for solar observation.
Solar Orbiter - SPICE SCM
We designed, developed, and delivered the Slit Change Mechanism (SCM) for the SPICE instrument aboard ESA’s Solar Orbiter
Sentinel-5 Instrument Structure
Almatech delivers ultra-stable, lightweight structures for Sentinel-5, enabling Europe’s most advanced mission to protect our climate and air quality from space.
FLORIS Calibration Unit - Key to FLEX vegetation monitoring
lmatech designed, developed, and delivered the FLORIS Calibration Unit for ESA’s FLEX mission, a critical mechanism ensuring in-flight optical calibration. Its innovative carousel design integrates redundancy, straylight suppression, and contaminant-free access, securing long-term mission reliability.
Exomars 2020 Thermal Control System
Thermal Protection Expertise for ExoMars: Tailored Thermal Design: advanced engineering of internal and external multilayer insulation (MLI) for optimal spacecraft protection.
End-to-End MAIT Delivery: full manufacturing, assembly, integration, and testing of high-reliability thermal hardware.
Mission-Critical Solutions: customized insulation for tanks, batteries, propulsion units, and solar arrays under extreme thermal conditions
Related Projects
Exomars Carrier module - Thermal Control System
Almatech developed the thermal control system for the Scatterometer Antenna System (SAS) on MetOp-SG satellites, including MLI blankets and components to maintain proper thermal performance for ocean wind and soil moisture monitoring.
Metop-SG Scatterometer Thermal Control Hardware
Almatech designed, developed, and delivered the thermal control hardware for the Scatterometer (SCA) Antenna System on ESA’s MetOp-SG satellites. This includes Multi-Layer Insulation (MLI) blankets and supporting components, ensuring proper thermal performance for the six-antenna system and enabling accurate measurements of ocean wind vectors and land soil moisture.
Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions ordered by popularity. Remember that if the visitor has not committed to the call to action, they may still have questions (doubts) that can be answered.
Almatech develops landing legs systems for several European launcher company, in particular the biggest one. Thrust Vectoring System and Grid Fins actuactors are also part of Almatech expertise.
For the last 4 years, Almatech partnering with Swiss and European leaders for the development of a gripper allowing to mechanically couple 2 satellites for orbit transfer and servicing.
For the last 15 years, Almatech has developed ultra stable structures like optical benches but also highly reflective diamond polished baffles and calibration mechanisms for several Science Mission, the flagship being the complete Optical Train Assembly (OTA) of the unique telescope satellite under Swiss primeship called CHEOPS.
Almatech assumes full responsibility for all phases of the project lifecycle, commencing with the Request for Quotation (RFQ) and Intent to Tender, continuing through to Final Delivery, and extending to post-delivery on-site support and warranty obligations, applicable to each of its bespoke and serial developments.
ZESST, which stands for Zero Emission Speed ShuTtle, is an electric hydrofoiler powered by a hybrid system combining hydrogen fuel cells and batteries. Designed for zero-emission transport of passengers and cargo via waterways, this innovative vessel leverages Almatech’s extensive space expertise and benefits from advanced space technology transfers.
Ready to Engage in Leading-Edge
Engineering?
Whether you're planning a space mission component, seeking engineering solutions for extreme environments, or interested in our innovative projects, our team is ready to bring Swiss precision to your challenges.