Resonate Testing has expanded its space-sector capabilities with the launch of a new thermal vacuum (TVAC) testing facility in Newry, Northern Ireland, featuring what the company describes as the largest and most capable thermal vacuum chamber on the island of Ireland.
Officially opened in June, the new facility enables the simulation of the extreme vacuum and temperature conditions experienced during space missions, allowing satellite and spacecraft hardware to be tested for launch readiness and operational reliability in orbit.
The investment coincides with Resonate Testing’s 10th anniversary and strengthens the company’s position in the growing New Space sector. The project received support from Invest Northern Ireland and was formally opened by Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins MLA, who joined founders Tom and Donna Mallon for the ribbon-cutting ceremony.
According to Resonate Testing, the new capability provides organisations across Ireland and beyond with access to a local, end-to-end testing solution, reducing the need to send hardware to facilities elsewhere in the UK or Europe.
Tom Mallon, founder and chief executive of Resonate Testing, said: “We’re proud to launch the island’s largest thermal vacuum chamber to simulate real space conditions right here in Northern Ireland. 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.”
The company said demand for environmental testing services is increasing as space technology programmes accelerate across Europe. Long waiting lists at established national testing centres can create delays for satellite developers, creating opportunities for alternative facilities offering faster access to qualification testing.
Resonate Testing currently works with more than 40 New Space clients and believes the addition of thermal vacuum testing strengthens its position as a leading independent provider of environmental testing services for the sector across the British Isles.
Mallon said many space companies face lengthy delays when seeking access to major testing laboratories, adding that the new service offers a faster and more flexible option for validating hardware before launch.
Minister Kimmins praised the company’s growth over the past decade, stating that the thermal vacuum facility reinforces both Resonate Testing’s and Newry’s reputation as centres of engineering innovation and technical excellence.
Based in Newry, Resonate Testing provides a range of mechanical and environmental testing services, including vibration, shock, fire, battery and climatic testing. The new thermal vacuum facility further broadens its offering to customers operating in the space, aerospace, automotive, industrial and other safety-critical industries.