Hyperion Technologies

Hyperion Technologies, now operating as AAC Hyperion, was established in August 2013 by Dr. Ir. Bert Monna (CEO), Dr. Ir. Steven Engelen (CTO), and Drs. Cor in't Veld (M.Sc.). Located in Delft, Netherlands, a hub for aerospace engineering, the company was founded by a team with deep-rooted expertise in high-tech and deep-tech industries. Bert Monna, a serial entrepreneur, brought over two decades of experience in growing startups from inception to acquisition, complemented by a background in electronics and technical systems engineering.

The company specializes in the design and manufacturing of high-performance, miniaturized components for small spacecraft. Its core business revolves around developing high-reliability electronics and mechatronic systems for the burgeoning small satellite market. Hyperion serves a global client base that includes government agencies like the European Space Agency (ESA) and the Canadian Space Agency, commercial space companies such as D-Orbit, and various universities and research institutions. The business model is centered on the sale of these specialized components and providing integrated solutions for satellite missions.

A significant milestone in the company's history occurred in October 2020, when it was acquired by AAC Clyde Space, a Swedish-Scottish group, for approximately $2.55 million. This acquisition integrated Hyperion as a fully owned subsidiary, now known as AAC Hyperion, and positioned it as AAC Clyde Space's center of excellence for advanced components. The deal was strategic, aiming to expand AAC Clyde's product portfolio with Hyperion's key technologies and enhance its presence within the European Union.

Hyperion’s product portfolio is extensive, featuring Attitude Determination and Control Systems (ADCS), which are crucial for a satellite's orientation and stability in orbit. Key products include the ST200 and ST400 star trackers, reaction wheels, sun sensors, and large magnetorquers. The company is particularly recognized for its star trackers, one of which is considered among the world's smallest. Furthermore, Hyperion is actively developing laser communication terminals, such as the CubeCAT, designed to enable high-speed data links for small satellites, a critical technology for future space missions. The firm has also ventured into 3D-printed propulsion systems, with its PM200 module being the first ECSS compliant 3D-printed bi-propellant system launched into space.

Keywords: small satellite components, spacecraft technology, attitude control systems, ADCS, star tracker, laser communications, nanosatellite components, mechatronic systems, space electronics, propulsion systems, satellite subsystems, CubeSat, smallsat, aerospace engineering, Delft space industry, satellite hardware, AAC Clyde Space, high-reliability electronics, space mission solutions, optical satellite communications