Active Space Technologies, Actividades Aeroespaciais S.A.

Their core work

Active Space Technologies is a Portuguese aerospace engineering SME specializing in mechanical and thermal systems for space and aviation applications. Their work spans deployable thermal management hardware for satellites (two-phase radiator technology), intelligent bearing systems, and advanced gearbox solutions for rotorcraft. They bridge space-grade engineering with aeronautics, applying precision mechanical component design across both domains.

What they specialise in

How they've shifted over time

Active Space Technologies entered H2020 in 2015 with pure space hardware (deployable radiator technology for satellites), then shifted toward aviation mechanical systems through the Clean Sky 2 joint technology initiative. Their trajectory shows a move from space thermal engineering toward intelligent, sensor-integrated mechanical components for aeronautics. With only three projects spanning 2015–2017 start dates, the evolution is more of a broadening from space into aviation than a sharp pivot.

They are moving toward smart mechanical systems (bearings, gearboxes) with embedded intelligence for aeronautics, suggesting future work in condition monitoring and predictive maintenance for aerospace drivetrain components.

How they like to work

Active Space Technologies operates both as a coordinator (iBearing) and as a contributing partner, showing willingness to lead when the topic fits their core competence. With only 7 unique consortium partners across 5 countries, they work in small, focused teams rather than large consortia. Their participation in Clean Sky 2 (2 of 3 projects) indicates they are embedded in the European aeronautics supply chain ecosystem.

A compact network of 7 partners across 5 European countries, reflecting focused collaboration within the aerospace and aeronautics sector rather than broad networking. Their Clean Sky 2 involvement connects them to the major European aeronautics OEMs and their supply chains.

What sets them apart

Active Space Technologies is one of few Portuguese SMEs operating at the intersection of space hardware and aeronautics mechanical systems. Their ability to coordinate EU projects as a small company — and their dual competence in thermal systems and intelligent mechanical components — makes them a versatile partner for aerospace consortia needing specialized hardware engineering. For consortium builders, they offer hands-on engineering capability without the overhead of a large aerospace contractor.

Highlights from their portfolio

• PEGASUS
  Largest funding (EUR 509,875) and focused on flight-qualifying space hardware — a high-barrier activity that demonstrates advanced engineering maturity.
• iBearing
  Their only coordinator role, showing leadership capability in intelligent mechanical component development for aviation.