'This is exactly the kind of ambition and forward-thinking we want to see': Northern Ireland lab firm launches cutting-edge space-ready testing facility

Resonate Testing has officially launched a new Thermal Vacuum (TVAC) testing capability, commissioning what it says is the largest and most capable thermal vacuum chamber on the island of Ireland, designed to replicate the extreme conditions of space and ensure satellites and spacecraft components can survive launch and operate in orbit.

The new facility allows the Newry-based engineering company to simulate the harsh vacuum and temperature extremes experienced in space, providing a one-stop solution for qualifying hardware used in the rapidly expanding “New Space” economy.

The investment also marks a milestone for the company as it celebrates its tenth anniversary, building on a decade of environmental and mechanical testing across aerospace, automotive, energy and advanced engineering sectors.

The TVAC chamber was officially opened in Newry by Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins MLA, who cut the ribbon alongside company founders Tom and Donna Mallon.

The project has been supported by Invest Northern Ireland, reflecting growing regional ambition to strengthen space-sector capability and high-value engineering jobs.

Tom Mallon, founder and chief executive of Resonate Testing, said the facility significantly enhances the company’s ability to support the global space industry.

“We’re proud to launch the island’s largest thermal vacuum chamber to simulate real space conditions right here in Northern Ireland,” he said.

“This major milestone expands what we can do to help innovative companies ensure their satellites and space hardware will survive launch and operate reliably in orbit. It strengthens our role as a leading test partner for advanced engineering and New Space organisations.”

Minister Kimmins said the investment reinforces Newry’s growing reputation as a hub for advanced engineering and innovation.

“Over the past decade, this company has built a strong reputation for innovation, technical excellence and customer focus,” she said. “The launch of the Thermal Vacuum facility places Resonate Testing and Newry firmly on the map as a leading provider of advanced environmental testing, not just locally but across these islands and beyond.”

She added that the development strengthens the regional economy and highlights the strategic importance of the Belfast–Dublin economic corridor in driving all-island growth and international competitiveness.

The launch comes amid rising global demand for space hardware testing, with established facilities across the UK and Europe reporting long lead times. Industry bottlenecks are increasingly pushing companies to seek faster, more flexible alternatives.

Resonate Testing said it now works with more than 40 New Space clients and positions itself as one of the leading independent environmental test providers for the sector across the British Isles.

“Our one-stop TVAC service gives companies a faster, independent alternative to congested national facilities,” Mallon said. “It helps keep projects on schedule and de-risks hardware before launch.”

The new capability enables full simulation of vacuum conditions and extreme thermal environments, providing end-to-end qualification testing for space-bound components.

Minister Kimmins added: “It is a real pleasure to be here to mark not only the official opening of this impressive facility, but also to celebrate ten years of success for Resonate Testing.”

The development is expected to further strengthen Northern Ireland’s position in the global aerospace and advanced engineering supply chain.