The Space Qualification Laboratory at CIRA was inaugurated on March 2, 2012, thanks to funding from the Campania Region under the “APQ Metadistretto ICT" program. This initiative aimed to create laboratories for pre-competitive development and technology transfer in the ICT and aerospace sectors, equipping CIRA with an advanced facility to perform mechanical and environmental qualification tests.

In just over a decade, the laboratory has become a national and international benchmark for the launch qualification of small and medium-sized satellites, reaching the milestone of 34 test campaigns by 2024. With cutting-edge equipment and the high technical-scientific expertise of its staff, the laboratory has played a crucial role in the most significant Earth observation and space exploration projects in recent years. Key programs it has contributed to include Space Rider, Iperdrone, Mini Irene, PLATiNO, MicroHETSat, Iride, HERA, and PLATO. The high number of qualification campaigns conducted, particularly for CubeSats, deployers, and satellite components, demonstrates the laboratory's excellence as a strategic resource for the Italian and European space industries.

​An ambitious investment plan to develop new test facilities will further strengthen this role over the next three years.