Orbital Matter recently closed more than one million euros in the firm’s pre-seed, funding round. The investment was led by Sunfish Partners and saw the participation of angel investors. The company is developing a spacecraft equipped with a 3D printer to manufacture ultra-light and cost-effective satellite parts and space infrastructure in-orbit.
Orbital Matter will focus on demonstrating its technology in microgravity and advancing toward an on-orbit demonstration, while partnering with industry leaders. This pragmatic approach
In September of 2023, Orbital Matter signed an MoU with Thales Alenia Space, a joint-venture between Thales (67%) and Leonardo (33%), to join their industrial accelerator within the Space Business Catalyst, accessing in that way technical, commercial, networking and funding support, and a unique opportunity to build strategic partnerships with a legacy industry player. This agile structure, operating out of Thales Alenia Space’s facilities in Toulouse and Turin, fosters the shaping of future, disruptive markets and the development of solutions and technologies with the potential to create new business opportunities for all parties.
Orbital Matter envisions a future where in-space manufacturing reshapes the landscape of space infrastructure. With this substantial funding injection, the company is poised to embark on a journey that goes beyond the limits of Earth’s gravitational pull and to demonstrate its 3D printer in microgravity.
The company, currently incubated at the ESA BIC Poland operated by Industrial Development Agency JSC, will strategically prioritize securing ESA contracts and participating in Horizon Europe calls, fostering strategic partnerships with industry leaders, ensuring a scalable framework for the execution of large-scale projects in Earth orbit.
“Thales Alenia Space’s teams are thrilled to witness the successful culmination of Orbital Matter’s financing round. We are convinced that this investment will accelerate Orbital Matter’s progress and enable it to deliver cutting-edge technologies faster. Through the Space Business Catalyst,we are proud to contribute to Orbital Matter’s innovative project in which 3D printing technology can revolutionize antennas and space infrastructure. Joining forces with Orbital Matter not only underlines our commitment to fostering innovation in space, but also reflects our shared vision of European independence in space. We look forward to the positive impact this collaboration will have on the future of sustainable space.” — Vincent Clot, Business and Open Innovation Director at Thales Alenia Space.
“Manufacturing capabilities in space must expand exponentially to improve critical infrastructure for Earth and for humans to potentially become a multi-planetary species. Orbital Matter isn’t just tackling a crucial challenge; the founders embody the mindset of a successful startup. With their lean, customer-focused approach, we have every confidence that they will navigate the complexities of the space industry, demonstrating both resilience and foresight.” – Dr. Marcus Erken, Founding Partner at Sunfish Partners
“This financing round is a testament to the confidence our investors have in Orbital Matter’s vision. We are grateful for their support and excited to take significant strides in in-space manufacturing. With the funds raised, we are well-positioned for the next 18 months, and this runway can be further extended through strategic engagements with ESA and EC, ensuring sustained progress and innovation.” — Jakub Stojek, CEO of Orbital Matter.
Orbital Matter’s cutting-edge technology aligns seamlessly with the vision for European independence in space, making significant contributions to the broader advancements within the space industry. We look forward to witnessing Orbital Matter’s continued success and the positive impact their groundbreaking technology will have on shaping the future of space exploration.” — Michał Chwieduk, Head of ESA BIC Poland