Space exploration is something that had always fascinated humanity, even before we began exploring the solar system. However, technology has made the impossible possible. Space startups are thinking beyond traditional travel and exploration, however. How are they helping to advance space tech even further?
What are Space Startups Doing?
Space technology is a broad term. However, it applies to exploration, travel and research beyond our atmosphere. Some companies develop space station solutions, while others help to build satellites. Others, like Elon Musk’s hugely successful SpaceX, aim to get people to Mars by the end of the decade.
Space is big business. While there may only be just over 30 space launches each year (globally), NASA’s budget is $23.3 billion. However, space mining, for example, offers value in regions drifting close to $30 quintillion.
Mankind is desperate to know more about the wider universe. It’s also keen to find extraterrestrial life and to find answers to why our planet and universe are how they are. That’s why startups in the space tech sphere are continuing to appeal to forward-looking investors.
US Innovators Going Beyond
The US is a hotbed for space exploration. Of course, exploration of our Moon has roots here. It’s also here where you will find many ventures pushing back the boundaries of interstellar research.
CesiumAstro, for example, is helping astronauts keep in touch. The company manufactures and engineers communications systems that help to connect spaceborne units. For example, they help to make communication stabler between drones and space stations. Ultimately, they could help us to keep in touch with planet landers.
Analytical Space, meanwhile, is helping to make satellite relay that little bit more efficient. While current technology allows us to keep in touch with satellites to a greater extent, there are delays. Using ‘nanosatellite’ technology, AS’ ‘FastPixel’ tool receives and relays satellite messages. Ultimately, it is a signal extender!
Slingshot Aerospace aims to bring space back to Earth. The company, founded in 2017 and worth at least $17 million in funding, creates virtual environments. This allows users at ground control to effectively work with a virtual rendition of a space environment. This means they can plan more efficiently and make more confident decisions.
Finally, Eclipse Orbital is working closely with CubeSats. This self-funded venture brings accessibility to a market of people who want to launch their satellites. Many may not even know this is a possibility. That, of course, is one of Eclipse’s reasons for operating in the first place.
Space Startups: Looking Ahead
Beyond sending a dummy in a Roadster into orbit, innovators have big plans for the big, black void. It’s clear that astronauts and researchers need the support of innovators to make that next giant leap. What does the future hold?
Space technology and satellite tech startups are available for funding across the US and even beyond. Investors may even use services such as Fundz to help narrow down their funding choices.
Sources
https://www.cbinsights.com/research/small-satellite-startups/
https://www.startus-insights.com/innovators-guide/5-top-emerging-small-satellite-startups/
https://www.startus-insights.com/innovators-guide/5-top-emerging-space-technology-startups/
https://www.statista.com/topics/5049/space-exploration/
https://www.spacebandits.io/startups
https://www.spacebandits.io/startups/slingshot-aerospace
https://www.spacebandits.io/startups/eclipse-orbital
Topic: Startups
