Innovation
The space tech solving the world's signal problem
New satellite networks are set to connect phones anywhere on Earth, even without traditional coverage. Reporting for Tech Now, Paul Carter finds out how the new tech could reshape how we communicate, travel, and respond in emergencies.
Reflex Aerospace Taps Arkadia Space for 2027 Mission
Reflex Aerospace selected Spanish startup Arkadia Space to provide a propulsion system for its satellite mission, launching in 2027.
The agreement marks the first time that Germany’s Reflex will fly a chemical-propulsion system on one of its satellites, according to the announcement. Reflex’s decision was based largely on Arkadia’s ability to rapidly build and integrate.
Technology
Hughes named new Kennedy Space Center director
New KSC Director Brian Hughes says Kennedy needs power, propellant delivery and road upgrades to support more launches.
BlackSky to accelerate broad-area collection work under NRO contract modification
The National Reconnaissance Office awarded a contract modification to BlackSky Technology to accelerate development of AROS broad-area-collection satellites.
VC
Quantum Space To Go Public Via SPAC
Quantum Space announced its intention to go public via SPAC on Monday.
The move to take the in-space mobility company public—and to do so via SPAC instead of IPO—is driven by the company’s desire to move quickly to meet the military’s needs in orbit, Quantum Space CEO Jim Bridenstine said in a press conference. The news comes just one month after Bridenstine was named CEO.
Investment
USSF Gives SpaceX $2.29B for New Data Network ‘Backbone’
Space Systems Command has awarded a massive $2.29 billion contract to SpaceX for the “backbone” of its new Space Data Network, a constellation of satellites in low-Earth orbit that will provide connectivity for the entire joint force.
SDN is the Space Force’s new program to transport data from sensors to shooters around the globe, combining both military and commercial satellites to manage both tactical and enterprise communication needs. The “SDN Backbone” was previously a joint Space Force-National Reconnaissance Office effort called MILNET.
BlackRock launches space tech ETF in European markets
BlackRock has expanded its iShares offering with a space technology ETF for European investors, tracking the STOXX Global Space Satellites and Drones index.
Satellogic Lands $18M+ Defense-Monitoring Contract
Satellogic ($SATL) announced a $18M+, one-year agreement today with an undisclosed international defense customer.
In February, Satellogic launched a new data product, called Aleph Observer, to offer customers persistent monitoring capabilities through its NewSat EO constellation. The contract marks the company’s first large agreement since it made that strategic shift to persistent-monitoring capabilities.
ICEYE, Isar Aerospace Announce Significant Funding Rounds
Two European space companies announced multi-hundred-million dollar funding rounds this mornin
Startups
Finnish satellite startup Iceye raises €1bn amid spacetech funding boost
The startup last raised €200m in December
India’s Eye in the Sky: The Rise of a State-Deep Tech Startup Space Partnership
India’s deep tech space startups are transforming the country’s space ambitions, as the state increasingly supports private innovation to strengthen India’s strategic and economic position in the global space race.
Rounding up the space unicorns
Once rare beasts, billion-dollar startups are multiplying across new orbital markets.