ABSTRACT
Space technologies are often associated with a high level of industrial development, and whoever possesses them is secured of placing its nation, or its industries, or its research institutes, in an enviable leading role and a broadly visible position. Access to space and the development of satellites were initiated by the two leading super powers of the post-Second World War era, the USSR and the United States, for strategic and military reasons. Today, however, and particularly in Europe, smaller nations can also play a determining role in large civil space programs, when they do master, not necessarily all, but even only a few technological advances in essential subsystems or components. Technology research and innovation are intimately associated with space research and the development of launchers and satellites, be they oriented toward basic research or application programs, making space activities synonymous with quality and competitiveness. This is correct although the rigors of the space environment may often force designers to accept compromises halfway between innovation and reliability.
