History

Through the twentieth century, space technology developed to become an indispensable resource in the fields of telecommunications, Earth observation, meteorology, and navigation. SSC has taken part in the journey from its first steps over 50 years ago and is now a well-reputed and sought-after partner with operations worldwide.

Sounding rockets, Kronogård

1961
The sounding rocket activity in Sweden started in 1961. In the beginning the launches took place from Kronogård, which originally was a hunting post for royal foresters and hunters. The launch site was very primitive.

Construction of Esrange starts

1964
ESRO (European Space Research Organisation), which later became ESA (European Space Agency), decided to expand the sounding rocketry. The construction of the Esrange Space Center started in 1964.

First Esrange rocket launch

1966
After completion of Esrange, the sounding rocket activity in Kronogård stopped. The very first sounding rocket from Esrange was launched on November 20, 1966.

SSC takes ownership

1972
SSC (then "Rymdbolaget") was founded and took ownership of Esrange Space Center.

Stratospheric balloons

1974
The first high altitude balloon was launched from Esrange Space Center in 1974. Photo: Pirog balloon project in 1985.

Ground station network

2000
SSC acquired USN (Universal Space Network) in the US and started the establishment of SSC's global ground station network.

LSE Space

2004
SSC aqquires German company LSE Space, which is the start of Spacecraft Operations and Engineering Services. Photo: ESA

New brand launched

2011
A new brand identity was launched in April 2011. SSC, a leading global provider of advanced space services

Testbeds

From 2020
Testbeds inaugurated at Esrange Space Center. Swedish government announced decision to establish capability to launch small satellites from Esrange. Photo: Rocket Factory Augsburg

Spaceport Esrange

Inauguration of Spaceport Esrange, the new satellite launch and reusable rocket test facility, on 13 January, 2023. Photo: Swedish Presidency of the Council of the EU