ATG Innovation has officially signed a contract with OHB on Wednesday, November 19th, marking a major milestone in the European Space Agency’s (ESA) ambitious LISA mission. Under this agreement, ATG will deliver the Satellite Central Tube (SCT) for all three spacecraft in the LISA constellation and will lead an Irish consortium that includes ÉireComposites.

Why LISA Matters
LISA – the Laser Interferometer Space Antenna- is a pioneering mission developed by ESA in collaboration with NASA. It will consist of three satellites flying in a triangular formation, separated by 2.5 million kilometres, to detect gravitational waves-ripples in space-time caused by cosmic events such as black hole mergers.

These waves carry information about phenomena that cannot be observed with traditional telescopes, opening a new window into the universe. By measuring changes smaller than the width of a helium atom across millions of kilometres, LISA will allow scientists to study the formation of galaxies, the nature of dark matter, and even test Einstein’s theory of general relativity on cosmic scales.

ATG’s role in this mission is critical The SCT forms the structural backbone of each satellite, designed using ATG’s patented lightweight, high-stiffness grid-stiffened architecture. ÉireComposites will manufacture and assemble these advanced composite structures, ensuring they meet stringent aerospace standards.

Ireland’s Role in Space Innovation
This collaboration highlights Ireland’s growing presence in the global space industry. By combining ATG’s engineering expertise with ÉireComposites’ advanced manufacturing capabilities, the consortium demonstrates how Irish innovation is contributing to one of the most ambitious scientific missions of the century.

from OHB:
“We are delighted to partner with ATG and their Irish consortium on LISA. Their expertise in composite
structures is essential for building spacecraft that can withstand the extreme conditions of deep space.
Together, we are enabling a mission that will transform our understanding of the universe.”

from ATG:
“Leading Ireland’s contribution to LISA is a source of immense pride for ATG. This mission is not just
about engineering, it’s about pushing the boundaries of human knowledge. By delivering the central
structure for all three satellites, we are placing Ireland at the heart of a project that will redefine
astrophysics for generations to come.”

About ATG Innovation
ATG Innovation Ltd., established in 2017 as ATG Europe’s centre of excellence for composite structures in Ireland, specializes in advanced engineering and composite technologies for space applications. The company’s expertise spans the entire development cycle, from conceptual design to full qualification and certification. Learn more at http://www.atg-europe.com

About OHB System AG
OHB System AG is one of Europe’s leading space companies, specializing in the development and integration of satellites and space systems for scientific, commercial, and security applications. For the LISA mission, OHB serves as the prime contractor, responsible for the overall spacecraft design, integration, and delivery to ESA. With decades of experience and a strong track record in major ESA missions, OHB combines cutting-edge technology with a commitment to advancing space science and exploration. Learn more at http://www.ohb.de

About ÉireComposites
ÉireComposites, based in Co. Galway, is a leader in composite design, manufacturing, and testing for aerospace and renewable energy sectors. Founded in 1998, the company delivers innovative, high / performance solutions to global customers. Learn more at http://www.eirecomposites.com

ATG Engineering has signed its first commercial contract with Rocket Factory Augsburg (RFA) on
Tuesday, November 18th, marking a major milestone in the company’s evolution from bespoke
engineering and innovation to industrialized production.

Under this agreement, ATG Engineering will deliver main interstages and upper skirts for the
RFA ONE launcher, with manufacturing support from subcontractor Airborne Aerospace.
The development and technology maturation leading up to this milestone achievement was
partially funded and supported through Dutch contributions via the Netherlands Space Office in
the ESA GSTP and BOOST program.

This contract is a key milestone for ATG Engineering, marking the turning point from the R&D and technology development phase of its grid-stiffened massoptimized structures into recurring production and commercialization of advanced composite structures, ensuring scalability, cost efficiency, and long-term impact.

By industrializing its products, ATG Engineering is positioning itself as a key contributor to Europe’s commercial launch market, where reliability and affordability are critical for success. The RFA ONE launcher is designed to provide flexible, cost-effective access to space for small satellites. ATG Engineering’s lightweight, high stiffness interstage structures will play a vital role in achieving these performance goals.

Europe’s space sector is undergoing a transformation, driven by the growing demand for small satellite launches and competitive pricing.
This contract demonstrates how partnerships between innovative engineering firms and launch providers can accelerate industrialization and strengthen Europe’s position in the globalmarket.
By enabling recurring production and scalability, ATG Engineering and RFA are setting a benchmark for costeffective, high-performance launch solutions.

Jörn Spurmann, CCO at RFA: “Partnering with ATG Engineering has proven to be a reliable and
trusted foundation for our mission to provide flexible and dependable access to space for
Europe. Our successful collaboration, built over several years, continues to strengthen RFA ONE
as we prepare for frequent commercial and strategic launches. We are pleased to move forward
together as Europe’s launch market continues to grow.”

Alberto Donadoni, CCO at ATG Europe: “The micro/small launchers race has been on in Europe
and globally for quite some years now, but the pursue of performances will only come after the
maiden flights during the fight for commercial sustainability. We are glad that RFA decided to
focus on performances from the very start, and that they trusted ATG’s technology to save them
mass where it matters starting with their first launcher. We are more than eager to continue this
journey with RFA, supporting them in optimising access to space. This is an important first step
for us, and we are already eagerly looking forward at the race for the moon, where every gram
saved matters the most!”

About ATG Engineering
ATG Engineering, part of ATG Europe, specializes in advanced composite structures for space applications. With expertise spanning design, analysis, and qualification, ATG Engineering is committed to delivering lightweight, high-performance solutions that meet the demands of modern space missions. Learn more at
http://www.atg-europe.com.

About Rocket Factory
Rocket Factory Augsburg was founded in 2018 with the vision to enable data generating business models in space to better understand, protect and connect our planet Earth. Against this background, the company’s goal is to offer launch services into low Earth orbits and beyond on a frequent basis, providing flexible, dependable and sovereign access to space for Europe.
The RFA ONE launch service combines three key competitive advantages: A customer focused service with precise in-orbit delivery and a high degree of mission flexibility through its third stage “Redshift”; at a highly competitive price; made possible by superior “Helix” staged / combustion engines, low-cost stainless steel structures and usage of industrial components.