How CrystalSpace grew from science into a deep tech company
CrystalSpace is a clear example of how knowledge born out of a student satellite project can evolve into a deep tech company with international ambitions. Originating from the ESTCube (University of Tartu student satellite programme) experience, the company has made deliberate strategic focus shifts over the years and today is developing next-generation space cameras with edge computing capabilities. In this interview, CrystalSpace explains how its current focus took shape, which decisions have most strongly influenced its development, and the current state of its new-generation space camera development.
This interview features insights from Pätris Halapuu, CEO of CrystalSpace and was conducted in the context of the sectoral mobility support programme (SekMo). The Estonian Research Council leads the programme and aims to bring researchers and companies together to develop new knowledge, technologies, and solutions jointly. SekMo supports the movement of researchers into companies and vice versa, helping to accelerate knowledge-intensive development and create meaningful synergy between science and entrepreneurship. CrystalSpace’s experience clearly illustrates the value such collaboration can bring to a company’s growth.
How did CrystalSpace come into being and what does the company focus on today?
CrystalSpace originated from the ESTCube-1 experience, when in 2012–2013 the idea emerged to establish a company in order to carry forward the knowledge gained during the development of a student satellite. Initially, the company attempted to bring various subsystems to market, such as sun sensors, control systems, and cameras, but the market did not develop as quickly as anticipated. In 2015–2016, a strategic pivot was made to focus exclusively on more scalable camera systems. Today, the company is developing next-generation space cameras with edge computing capabilities.
How did the idea to apply for SekMo support arise and what was the first experience like?
The current SekMo project is already the company’s second. The idea emerged as technologies advanced and the opportunity arose to create a new generation camera system, which required the involvement of a researcher. The first application process was well-structured: objectives were clearly defined, and feedback was constructive. The process also helped the company itself to clarify its development focus.
How difficult was it to find a suitable researcher?
It was not difficult. The Estonian space sector is small, and everyone knows everyone. Mihkel Pajusalu was already familiar from earlier, and the collaboration was a natural continuation of the ESTCube days.
How was the onboarding of the new specialist organised?
Just like with any other employee. The company has a detailed onboarding process with clear goals for the first day, week, month, and up to four months. SekMo provided general guidance but left the company free to manage the process. The researcher joined the team as a full-fledged member, and the process followed standard practices.
What are the main strengths of SekMo support?
The key strength lies in the synergy between the company and the researcher. The researcher brings theoretical and analytical capabilities, while the company contributes practical market and development experience. Flexible communication reduces risk and accelerates validation. SekMo also enables the engagement of researchers who would otherwise prefer to remain in academia and whom it would not be feasible to hire full-time.
Has the space sector been affected by political movements in the United States, such as the relocation of US researchers to Europe?
There has been no direct impact visible in Estonia. However, across Europe more broadly, specialists with U.S. backgrounds are increasingly joining start-ups. Estonia is not yet as attractive a destination as Germany, France, or Spain.
How far along is the development of the new generation space camera?
Progress is being made at a good pace. Most work currently focuses on low-technology-readiness-level prototypes, but the first components have already been assembled and are being tested. A baseline version suitable for an early spaceflight could be ready within the following year. Achieving a full-scale product and a higher TRL will take at least a couple more years.
How burdensome is SekMo reporting?
Reporting takes place every six months. Typically, it consists of 15–20 pages and requires about two days of work. The obligation is not overly burdensome, and the feedback is clear and constructive.
Which companies would you recommend SekMo support to?
Essentially, to all companies with knowledge-intensive development or research, including medicine,the food industry, forestry, technology, and more. Any field where a researcher’s contribution could create new value or innovation is suitable.
To whom would you not recommend it?
Those with no interest in development and whose sole need is to increase line labour. Even in such cases, however, a researcher could assist with automation or the development of new solutions, so there are very few situations in which it would be entirely unsuitable.
___________________________________________________
Estonia and Europe offer several programs that promote collaboration between companies and research institutions. These programs provide financial support for research, building partnerships, and developing new technologies.
Programs in Estonia
Matchmaking events
In addition to funding programs, ETAG regularly organizes events that bring scientists and entrepreneurs together. For example, the next matchmaking event will take place on January 28 during sTARTUp Day’s pre-events day, focusing on health technologies. Such events offer the chance to speak directly with scientists and find potential collaborators.
Collaboration with scientists benefits not only individual businesses but also society as a whole. It requires courage to step out of your comfort zone and take the first step.
If you feel that working with scientists could be your company’s next big step, don’t wait. Reach out to researchers, participate in matchmaking events, and explore the funding opportunities available to you. sTARTUp Day is the perfect place to start – the doors of opportunity are open; you just need to walk through them.
For those looking to take their collaboration with scientists to the next level, don’t miss the upcoming seminar at sTARTUp Day: “The R&D Funding Workshop – Stop Blaming, Start Scaling” on January 29th at 11 AM, seminar room 3.
CrystalSpace originated from the ESTCube-1 experience, when in 2012–2013 the idea emerged to establish a company in order to carry forward the knowledge gained during the development of a student satellite. Initially, the company attempted to bring various subsystems to market, such as sun sensors, control systems, and cameras, but the market did not develop as quickly as anticipated. In 2015–2016, a strategic pivot was made to focus exclusively on more scalable camera systems. Today, the company is developing next-generation space cameras with edge computing capabilities.
How did the idea to apply for SekMo support arise and what was the first experience like?
The current SekMo project is already the company’s second. The idea emerged as technologies advanced and the opportunity arose to create a new generation camera system, which required the involvement of a researcher. The first application process was well-structured: objectives were clearly defined, and feedback was constructive. The process also helped the company itself to clarify its development focus.
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How difficult was it to find a suitable researcher?
It was not difficult. The Estonian space sector is small, and everyone knows everyone. Mihkel Pajusalu was already familiar from earlier, and the collaboration was a natural continuation of the ESTCube days.
How was the onboarding of the new specialist organised?
Just like with any other employee. The company has a detailed onboarding process with clear goals for the first day, week, month, and up to four months. SekMo provided general guidance but left the company free to manage the process. The researcher joined the team as a full-fledged member, and the process followed standard practices.
What are the main strengths of SekMo support?
The key strength lies in the synergy between the company and the researcher. The researcher brings theoretical and analytical capabilities, while the company contributes practical market and development experience. Flexible communication reduces risk and accelerates validation. SekMo also enables the engagement of researchers who would otherwise prefer to remain in academia and whom it would not be feasible to hire full-time.
Has the space sector been affected by political movements in the United States, such as the relocation of US researchers to Europe?
There has been no direct impact visible in Estonia. However, across Europe more broadly, specialists with U.S. backgrounds are increasingly joining start-ups. Estonia is not yet as attractive a destination as Germany, France, or Spain.
How far along is the development of the new generation space camera?
Progress is being made at a good pace. Most work currently focuses on low-technology-readiness-level prototypes, but the first components have already been assembled and are being tested. A baseline version suitable for an early spaceflight could be ready within the following year. Achieving a full-scale product and a higher TRL will take at least a couple more years.
How burdensome is SekMo reporting?
Reporting takes place every six months. Typically, it consists of 15–20 pages and requires about two days of work. The obligation is not overly burdensome, and the feedback is clear and constructive.
Which companies would you recommend SekMo support to?
Essentially, to all companies with knowledge-intensive development or research, including medicine,the food industry, forestry, technology, and more. Any field where a researcher’s contribution could create new value or innovation is suitable.
To whom would you not recommend it?
Those with no interest in development and whose sole need is to increase line labour. Even in such cases, however, a researcher could assist with automation or the development of new solutions, so there are very few situations in which it would be entirely unsuitable.
___________________________________________________
Practical support for entrepreneurs
Estonia and Europe offer several programs that promote collaboration between companies and research institutions. These programs provide financial support for research, building partnerships, and developing new technologies.
Programs in Estonia
- SekMo: A funding scheme that facilitates the movement of scientists to private and public sector projects and supports industrial doctoral studies, enabling them to apply their expertise beyond academia. Contact: tea.tassa@rtk.ee; liisa.edur@etag.ee
- TemTA: This program funds research institutions to collaborate with companies. This includes access to laboratories, analysis services, or contracting research services. Companies can act as partners and benefit from the resources of research institutions. Contact: mats.hansen@etag.ee
- Horizon Europe: A European framework program that funds innovation and research. Estonian entrepreneurs can participate in this program alongside research institutions. Contact: darja.matt@etag.ee
- EIS Applied Research Program: This program supports the development of innovative technologies, processes, products, or services, helping companies grow through applied research. Contact: mart.toots@eis.ee
Matchmaking events
In addition to funding programs, ETAG regularly organizes events that bring scientists and entrepreneurs together. For example, the next matchmaking event will take place on January 28 during sTARTUp Day’s pre-events day, focusing on health technologies. Such events offer the chance to speak directly with scientists and find potential collaborators.
Collaboration with scientists benefits not only individual businesses but also society as a whole. It requires courage to step out of your comfort zone and take the first step.
If you feel that working with scientists could be your company’s next big step, don’t wait. Reach out to researchers, participate in matchmaking events, and explore the funding opportunities available to you. sTARTUp Day is the perfect place to start – the doors of opportunity are open; you just need to walk through them.
For those looking to take their collaboration with scientists to the next level, don’t miss the upcoming seminar at sTARTUp Day: “The R&D Funding Workshop – Stop Blaming, Start Scaling” on January 29th at 11 AM, seminar room 3.
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