RVactuators s.r.o. wins Early Technology Development contract with European Space Agency to advance next-generation microactuators for space
Dolní Břežany, Czech Republic, November 26, 2025 - RVactuators s.r.o., a company affiliated with RVmagnetics, a.s., has been awarded an Early Technology Development (ETD) contract by the European Space Agency (ESA) to further develop its cutting-edge microactuator technology for space applications. Under the 15-month development program running from March 2026 to June 2027, RVactuators will mature its innovative actuator technology to Technology Readiness Level 4 (TRL4), demonstrating its performance in a relevant environment for space. The information about this agreement Smart MicroActuators with Sensing Ability based on Shape Memory Effect in Heusler MicroWires is published on the ESA website: ESA Cooperative Agreement No. 4000150096/2025/NL/GLC.
The project is reinforced by a leading European high-tech company in aerospace, defence and security, confirming strong industrial interest and supporting the technology’s path toward future integration in space systems and missions.
“Being selected by the European Space Agency is an important milestone for RVactuators. It confirms both the novelty and the practical value of our microactuator technology. With the support of ESA, we are confident we can deliver a solution that sets a new benchmark for high-precision actuation in space.”
Prof. Dr. Rastislav Varga, Founder and co-CEO, RVactuators
Surpassing the technical limits of Nitinol
Surpassing the technical limits of Nitinol. RVactuators’ proprietary microactuator technology has been designed to surpass the technical capabilities of traditional Nitinol-based solutions, addressing key limitations in precision, repeatability, and control while maintaining high reliability.
Engineered specifically for demanding space conditions, the microactuators offer:
- SWaP-optimized design – reduced Size, Weight, and Power consumption, enabling integration into compact, mass- and power-constrained platforms
- High-precision micropositioning suitable for fine mechanisms in space, such as optical alignment, adaptive structures, and micro-mechanical systems
- Enhanced robustness to harsh operational environments compared with conventional smart materials
Enabling next-generation space mechanisms
The ETD contract will focus on design, manufacturing, and testing activities required to reach TRL4, including validation of the technology in relevant conditions for space.
“Our mission at RVmagnetics and RVactuators is to turn advanced materials and sensing technologies into tangible, space-qualified solutions. This contract will help us demonstrate that our microactuators are not only technically superior to today’s Nitinol solutions, but also ready to support the next generation of European space missions.”
Vladimir Marhefka, co-CEO, RVactuators
About ESA
The European Space Agency (ESA) is an intergovernmental organization dedicated to exploring space and developing space technologies on behalf of its 23 member states. It conducts scientific missions, Earth observation, satellite navigation, and supports innovation by funding cutting-edge technologies for future space applications.
About RVactuators
RVactuators s.r.o. is a technology company focused on the development of advanced microactuators and smart mechanisms for aerospace and high-tech industries. Building on strong material science and technical background originating from RVmagnetics, RVactuators delivers SWaP-optimized, high-precision actuation solutions designed for challenging environments where reliability, efficiency, and miniaturization are critical.
About RVmagnetics
RVmagnetics, a.s. is a deep-tech company based in Slovakia, specializing in microscale magnetic sensors and advanced functional materials. Its unique technology platform enables highly precise measurement and control of physical quantities in miniature, embedded form factors, unlocking new possibilities across aerospace, medical, industrial, and research applications.