ESA is launching several Phi-labs across Europe with the goal of accelerating the future of Earth Observation (EO), focusing on delivering innovation, reducing the time-to-market and with potential to disrupt and transform markets.
Now The Arctic Phi-Lab is established in Tromsø, focusing on Arctic needs. The establishment is done in a collaboration with partners, including KSAT, UIT Arctic University of Norway, NORCE, Norinnova, Akvaplan-niva and Jordobservasjon AS. KSAT is managing the lab on behalf of the partners.
Milestone for the industry
Opening a Phi-Lab in Northern Norway is another milestone for the space industry in Norway, the Norwegian Minister of Trade and Industry, Cecilie Myrseth, said at the opening this week.
– There is a great potential for business in in the north, especially as the gravity centre for the industry is in this region, she said.
Strengthens Norway's position
The Mayor of Tromso, Gunnar Wilhelmsen encourages the space industry in Northern Norway to explore the opportunities the establishment of the innovation lab give. The location of the lab will be in Tromsø.
– It is not only meant to develop the region, but also to strengthen Norway’s position, he states.
The lab will issue open calls for proposals twice a year. These calls are open for Norwegian entities, but also for international players given that the results will be beneficial for Norway.
The first call for projects has now been published and remains open until October 31st.
Representantives from the partners in the Arctic Phi-Lab together with the Norwegian Minister of Trade and Industry and the Mayor of Tromsø were happy to attend the official inauguration October 1st 2024.
