AIKO SRL

Their core work

AIKO is a Torino-based SME specializing in artificial intelligence software for space operations. They develop autonomous control systems for spacecraft and satellite ground segments, enabling missions to operate with less human intervention. Their work spans on-board AI for spacecraft decision-making and ground-based AI for managing flexible satellite payloads, including integration with 5G networks. They sit at the intersection of AI and space technology, turning research-grade autonomy concepts into operational software.

What they specialise in

How they've shifted over time

AIKO began with a compact SME Phase 1 feasibility study on on-board AI for next-generation spacecraft (MiRAGE, 2018), signaling early-stage ambitions in autonomous space systems. By 2019-2024, they moved into larger collaborative projects focused on ground segment AI and satellite payload control, with explicit ties to 5G network integration. The trajectory shows a clear shift from spacecraft-level autonomy research toward operational AI software for the broader satellite ecosystem, including telecommunications.

AIKO is moving from pure space autonomy research toward applied AI software for satellite-telecom convergence, positioning them for the growing flexible payload and 5G-from-space market.

How they like to work

AIKO has coordinated one project (MiRAGE, their initial SME instrument) and participated in two larger consortia, suggesting a company that used H2020 to validate its concept independently, then joined established teams to scale. With 11 unique partners across 7 countries from just 3 projects, they engage in reasonably diverse consortia rather than working with the same circle repeatedly. As a small company contributing specialized AI software, they are likely sought as a technology contributor rather than a consortium organizer.

AIKO has built a network of 11 partners across 7 countries through just 3 projects, indicating they join internationally diverse consortia. Their network likely spans European space agencies, satellite operators, and telecom-adjacent organizations given their project themes.

What sets them apart

AIKO occupies a specific niche: AI autonomy software purpose-built for space operations. While many AI companies target terrestrial applications and many space companies lack deep AI expertise, AIKO bridges both domains from a focused SME position. Their progression from spacecraft autonomy to 5G-satellite ground control suggests they can deliver AI solutions across the full space value chain, making them a practical partner for any consortium needing intelligent automation in satellite or ground segment systems.

Highlights from their portfolio

• ATRIA
  Their largest project (EUR 383K) combining AI, flexible payload control, and 5G satellite integration — represents their most mature and commercially relevant capability.
• MiRAGE
  Their first H2020 project as coordinator (SME Phase 1), establishing on-board spacecraft AI as their founding expertise before scaling into larger consortia.