Starburst Ventures

Loft Orbital Solutions Inc. is a company based in San Francisco, California, that provides comprehensive services for the deployment and operation of customer payloads in space. Established in 2017, Loft Orbital specializes in operating microsatellites and offers an end-to-end solution that includes satellite platform integration, launch booking, and operational management. The company simplifies the satellite deployment process by utilizing a standardized satellite bus and a suite of software tools, thereby reducing costs and accelerating the timeline to orbit. Additionally, Loft Orbital addresses financial and regulatory challenges by providing solutions for licensing, insurance, and financing, allowing customers to concentrate on their mission objectives rather than the technical complexities of satellite engineering.

Privateer is a company focused on developing data infrastructure to support the sustainable growth of the new space economy. It utilizes proprietary knowledge graph technology to enhance the collection and processing of information about space objects. As orbital environments become increasingly congested, this technology facilitates safe and effective maneuvering for space operators, contributing to the overall safety and accessibility of space for all.

Aerix Systems specializes in the design and manufacture of advanced drones. Their key innovation lies in creating omnidirectional drones capable of navigating in any direction and orientation, pushing the boundaries of traditional flight capabilities. These drones are equipped with propulsion systems that enable them to execute erratic trajectories at high speeds, withstand harsh weather conditions, and ensure enhanced safety. Aerix Systems caters to a diverse range of sectors, including civil, military, and naval, supporting both passive and active missions in challenging environments like mountains and open seas.

Atomic-6 is an advanced manufacturing startup founded in 2018 and based in Atlanta, Georgia. The company focuses on the development and mass production of composite products, particularly carbon fiber, aimed at enhancing the logistics, military, and aerospace sectors. In addition to its manufacturing capabilities, Atomic-6 provides engineering consultancy services, assisting organizations in the space and aerospace industries in acquiring advanced products that improve their operational processes.

Reflex Aerospace specializes in the design and manufacturing of customized satellite platforms. The company focuses on creating multi-mission capable satellites that support the development of various space projects. Reflex Aerospace provides comprehensive services, including manufacturing, assembly, and integration of satellites, ensuring competitive pricing. The satellites are engineered to deliver high accuracy and stability for both passive and active Earth observation instruments. They are equipped with robust power and performance features, facilitating uninterrupted transmission and effective power and temperature management systems. This enables clients to obtain fully functional satellite assets tailored to their specific requirements and customizations.

Sirius Space Services is an aerospace manufacturing company focused on developing sustainable and reusable launch vehicles specifically designed for small satellites. The company aims to provide affordable access to space for small satellite operators, allowing them to utilize launch services comparable to those available for larger satellite operators. By prioritizing sustainability and reusability in its rocket designs, Sirius Space Services seeks to enhance the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of satellite launches, thereby supporting the growing demand for small satellite deployment in various sectors.

Outpost Technologies is focused on advancing sustainable space exploration by developing reusable satellite technologies. The company aims to transform the space industry by providing efficient services for launching and returning payloads to Earth. By emphasizing reusable systems, Outpost seeks to reduce the costs and time associated with space missions, thereby fostering a more sustainable and iterative space economy. Their offerings include Earth return capabilities for satellites and support for orbital payload missions, catering to the needs of clients in the aviation and aerospace sectors. An inquiry form on their website facilitates customer engagement and service requests.

Canopy Aerospace specializes in the production of thermal protection systems, particularly heat shields for the space and hypersonic industries. The company focuses on advanced materials, utilizing ceramics and composites through scalable additive manufacturing techniques. By integrating software into its manufacturing processes, Canopy Aerospace enhances optimization, efficiency, and the rapid production of critical components. This approach allows vehicle manufacturers to incorporate thermal protection system designs early in their development, facilitating informed decision-making during trade studies and minimizing expensive last-minute changes. Canopy Aerospace serves various sectors, including hypersonics, space launch, propulsion, medical, semiconductors, automotive, and power generation, thereby improving mission capabilities in demanding environments.

Rebel Space Technologies specializes in developing advanced software and systems aimed at ensuring secure and resilient mission-critical operations from Earth to deep space. The company focuses on autonomous intelligence software that enhances wireless connectivity and provides autonomous threat detection and response capabilities for networked edge devices. By integrating physical and cyber security, Rebel Space delivers actionable insights and real-time intelligence tailored for complex wireless environments. Additionally, the company offers secure radio communication solutions designed for challenging conditions, leveraging innovations in spectrum awareness and autonomous radio frequency systems to enable reliable communications for its clients.

SpaceAlpha specializes in developing advanced dual-band synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellite technology that provides real-time insights for various industries. The company focuses on using its SAR-XL satellites, enhanced by artificial intelligence, to deliver ultra-high-resolution data capable of penetrating biomass, soil, and sand. This technology offers immediate detection of ground objects, facilitating applications in precision agriculture, environmental monitoring, supply chain tracking, security, and more. By combining its satellite capabilities with a predictive analytics platform, SpaceAlpha aims to equip clients with actionable information, enabling them to make informed decisions based on comprehensive global insights.

Starfish Space Inc. specializes in providing on-demand in-space transportation and maintenance services for satellites. The company develops small space tugs equipped with proprietary Proximity Operations Software, which integrates orbital mechanics, machine vision artificial intelligence, and a low-thrust electric propulsion system. This innovative technology allows the tugs to conduct various satellite servicing missions, including life extension, relocation, disposal, and inspection. Founded in 2019 and based in Kent, Washington, Starfish Space aims to support satellite companies by enhancing their operational capabilities in orbit.

Exosonic is an early-stage aerospace startup based in Los Angeles, California, focused on developing supersonic unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for adversary air training missions, catering to both commercial and government clients. Established in 2019, the company aims to evolve these UAVs into collaborative combat aircraft, leveraging insights gained to eventually create quiet supersonic airliners. Exosonic has secured over $4.5 million in private funding and more than $2 million from AFWERX. With a team of 15 full-time employees, the company is currently working on a subscale flight test vehicle designed to showcase autonomous capabilities and potential crewed-uncrewed teaming, with its first flight anticipated in the second quarter of 2023. Through its innovations, Exosonic seeks to significantly reduce long-haul flight times, making supersonic travel more accessible and efficient for airlines.

Modularity Space is focused on creating modular, reusable satellites that can be repaired, refueled, and upgraded in space. The company aims to transition to reusable space systems by establishing a constellation of these satellites, which includes the integration, launch, operation, and maintenance of the entire network. Their offerings consist of advanced, mass-producible, and scalable spacecraft designed to accommodate multiple payloads, allowing for upgrades and refurbishment in orbit. This innovative approach enables businesses to deploy payloads into space at a lower cost, promoting sustainability in satellite operations.

F-drones is a developer and manufacturer specializing in transition drones that facilitate aerial deliveries to ships and offshore platforms. Their innovative drones are engineered for heavy payloads and long-range capabilities, allowing them to take off vertically, fly like fixed-wing aircraft, and land on moving targets. This design not only enhances operational efficiency but also contributes to cost savings, reduced manpower, and lower carbon emissions in marine and offshore logistics. F-drones aims to establish itself as a leader in heavy payload drone logistics across various industries within five years, setting high safety and reliability standards for aviation-grade drone deliveries.

Archangel Lightworks is a company specializing in laser communications technology aimed at enhancing space-ground connectivity. By developing secure, wireless systems that utilize laser transmission, the company addresses the limitations of traditional radio communications, which are often bandwidth-constrained and lack security. Archangel Lightworks produces a range of products, including space terminals for satellites, air terminals for drones and manned aircraft, and ground communication terminals. These innovations provide the aerospace sector with resilient connectivity solutions, paving the way for the future of space-enabled networks.

ResilienX specializes in developing a comprehensive software monitoring system aimed at enhancing the resilience and reducing maintenance costs of complex autonomous ecosystems. Their platform is designed to monitor the health, integrity, and performance of systems involved in Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) and Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations. By servicing a diverse clientele that includes federal, state, and commercial organizations, ResilienX helps orchestrate the mitigation of off-nominal situations and facilitates automated contingency management. Their focus on safety-critical systems positions them as a key player in the evolving landscape of autonomous operations, supporting clients in meeting regulatory requirements and improving operational efficiency.

Morpheus Space GmbH, founded in 2018 and based in Dresden, Germany, is an aerospace company specializing in the manufacture of electric propulsion systems for the small satellite industry. The company produces modular systems such as nanoFEEP and multiFEEP, which facilitate the operation of satellite constellations as cohesive units. By integrating advanced electric propulsion technology with artificial intelligence, Morpheus Space is redefining the capabilities of satellite networks, allowing for unprecedented flexibility in mission planning and orbital maneuvering. Its highly efficient propulsion systems enable satellites to conduct numerous complex maneuvers, optimizing their operations and supporting sustainability in space. This innovation also addresses the challenge of space debris management, positioning Morpheus Space at the forefront of the NewSpace industry.

Robotic Skies, Inc. is a provider of maintenance and repair services for commercial unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and advanced air mobility aircraft (AAM). Founded in 2013 and based in Albuquerque, New Mexico, the company operates a global network of over 150 independently-owned repair stations. These stations are staffed by aviation professionals with expertise in maintaining both manned and unmanned aircraft, ensuring high standards of safety and efficiency. Robotic Skies offers a comprehensive field service program designed to keep UAS fleets operational and compliant with aviation regulations. This approach enables it to deliver specialized certification, maintenance, and repair services to emerging commercial drone operators worldwide.

Optimized Electrotech specializes in the development of advanced electro-optic surveillance systems tailored for both strategic and commercial markets. The company focuses on creating high-end products capable of recognizing individuals from long distances, with features that allow them to automatically match alerts with existing databases. These surveillance systems utilize longer wavelengths, enabling them to function effectively in challenging atmospheric conditions such as fog and smoke. Their applications are diverse, including perimeter security and airport monitoring, supporting businesses and governmental agencies in areas related to homeland security and defense intelligence. Currently, Optimized Electrotech is seeking funding to initiate commercial production of its innovative solutions.

Odys Aviation is an aircraft startup focused on developing hybrid-electric vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) aircraft aimed at enhancing regional mobility. The company aims to transform air travel by facilitating the creation of distributed aerial transportation networks that bypass traditional airport infrastructure, significantly reducing door-to-door travel times. By integrating advanced technologies, Odys Aviation seeks to promote electrification and sustainability in air travel, improving the overall human experience and offering innovative solutions for businesses in the transportation sector.

Nebula Compute specializes in developing an open-source cloud computing platform tailored for the space sector, serving both government and commercial clients. Its innovative technology aims to enhance high-performance computing capabilities, offering a cost-effective alternative to constructing additional data centers. By facilitating the sharing of large and complex data sets, Nebula Compute enables scientists and researchers from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, among others, to collaborate more efficiently with external partners and the public. The platform allows users to provision, manage, and decommission computing resources on demand, utilizing a user-friendly web interface or command-line tools.

Near Earth Autonomy, Inc., founded in 2011 and based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, specializes in developing autonomous systems that enhance the safety of both ground and aerial vehicles. The company focuses on creating technologies that facilitate safe and accessible autonomous flight, enabling unmanned aircraft of various sizes, from small drones to full-size helicopters, to operate effectively across a range of applications. Their innovations include advanced sensor suites, collision detection, relative navigation, landing zone assessment, motion planning, and visual pilot aids. By integrating these technologies, Near Earth Autonomy aims to make autonomous navigation systems reliable and practical for diverse operational needs.

Atomic-6 is an advanced manufacturing startup founded in 2018 and based in Atlanta, Georgia. The company focuses on the development and mass production of composite products, particularly carbon fiber, aimed at enhancing the logistics, military, and aerospace sectors. In addition to its manufacturing capabilities, Atomic-6 provides engineering consultancy services, assisting organizations in the space and aerospace industries in acquiring advanced products that improve their operational processes.

Plus Ultra Space Outposts manages and deploys off-Earth infrastructure for the growth and sustainability of the upcoming cislunar economy. The company was founded in 2020 and has locations in Spain, Germany, and Luxembourg.

Skyways is a company based in Austin, Texas, specializing in the development and construction of vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) drones. These drones are designed primarily for military applications, providing autonomous delivery systems that can transport payloads of up to 45 pounds without risking human life. Founded in 2017 and backed by Y Combinator, Skyways aims to revolutionize cargo transportation and is also exploring the future potential of personal air transportation services. The company emphasizes the development of advanced software to support full autonomy and large-scale fleet operations, positioning itself as a leader in unmanned transport solutions for emergency situations and military logistics.

SyncFab operates a blockchain-based network for supply chain management, focusing on connecting OEM part buyers in industries such as aerospace, defense, automotive, and medical devices with a network of manufacturers. Founded in 2013 and headquartered in San Leandro, California, the company offers a range of manufacturing capabilities, including CNC machining, laser cutting, and various finishing services. SyncFab's platform enhances procurement efficiency by allowing buyers to issue purchase orders and requests for quotes directly to manufacturers, thereby eliminating intermediaries and reducing costs and procurement time. The use of blockchain technology ensures improved security, traceability, and supplier management, while also addressing issues like counterfeiting and recalls. SyncFab is recognized for its role in promoting clean energy smart manufacturing standards and is a member of several industry initiatives, including the MOBI Automotive Industry Blockchain Consortium.

C4 Systems, Inc. is an Israeli company that specializes in the development of airborne command and control systems aimed at enhancing situational awareness for aerial and ground forces. The company's technology integrates critical mission information into a unified platform, creating a real-time common operational picture for all participating units. This integration enhances decision-making capabilities and facilitates faster reaction times, ultimately leading to improved mission success rates. C4 Systems focuses on providing aerospace-grade solutions for the aerial homeland security and para-military sectors.

Launcher Inc. is a New York-based company that specializes in providing delivery services for small satellites to orbit. The firm focuses on developing highly efficient rockets and transfer vehicles specifically designed for this purpose. A key aspect of Launcher’s technology is its three-dimensional printed liquid propellant rocket engine, which is powered by liquid oxygen and kerosene. This innovative approach allows Launcher to offer low-cost solutions for deploying small remote-controlled satellites, positioning the company as a competitive player in the satellite launch market.

Block Aero is a Bangkok-based company established in 2017 that specializes in providing a blockchain platform tailored for the aviation supply chain. The platform enables organizations to effectively manage their data and enhances collaborative workflows within the industry. By incorporating artificial intelligence, Block Aero digitizes the global aerospace supply chain and creates digital passports for assets secured with blockchain technology. This innovative approach aims to improve safety management systems, boost productivity, and enhance transaction efficiency. Additionally, Block Aero assists clients in reducing operational costs and turnaround times while exploring new revenue opportunities.

Sightec specializes in developing visual intelligence technology for autonomous flights, leveraging computer vision and artificial intelligence to enhance safety and efficiency in unmanned aerial missions. The company's product suite offers camera-based visual situational awareness that operates day and night, facilitating navigation, ground object detection, and 3D change detection without reliance on GPS. Their flagship product, NavSight, serves as a GPS-free aerial navigation system, utilizing advanced machine vision and AI to process camera feeds for visual positioning in GPS-denied environments. Sightec's diverse clientele includes governments, original equipment manufacturers, integrators, and service providers across various sectors such as aerospace, public safety, security, inspection, and delivery. The company aims to fully realize the potential of the autonomous flight market by providing a lightweight and cost-effective visual situational awareness solution that can augment or ultimately replace human pilots.

Ravyn Technology Corporation, established in 2019 and headquartered in Mountain View, California, specializes in aerospace and defense engineering services. The company caters to the needs of the U.S. government, offering a range of products including solid-fuel and cruise missiles, artillery, precision-guided munitions, and related subsystems. Ravyn's focus is on providing rapid prototype, fieldable weapon systems to government organizations.

Skyloom Global is a company focused on developing and manufacturing advanced communication technology for outer space. Founded in 2017 and based in Merritt Island, Florida, it specializes in optical communication products and relay satellites positioned in geostationary orbit. These technologies are designed to significantly enhance space-to-Earth bandwidth, enabling low Earth orbit satellite constellations to transmit large volumes of data rapidly. By creating a robust spaceborne infrastructure, Skyloom aims to unlock the economic potential of low Earth orbit, facilitating real-time insights and applications for various industries.

AnsuR, based in Norway & Spain, provides software for mission-critical satellite communication of multimedia content, reducing bandwidth by 99% and increasing efficiency by 100 times.

Momentus Inc. is a commercial space company based in Santa Clara, California, founded in 2017. The company specializes in providing water-powered transportation services for spacecraft and aims to offer a range of in-space infrastructure services. These services include in-space transportation, hosted payloads, and in-orbit servicing, facilitated by its planned transfer and service vehicles. Momentus is developing an innovative water plasma-based propulsion system to enable efficient movement of satellites and payloads between orbits. By focusing on space transportation, satellite services, and in-orbit servicing, Momentus positions itself as a key player in the evolving space economy.

Prime Lightworks Inc. specializes in the manufacturing of electric propulsion systems designed for space satellites. The company focuses on the direct conversion of electricity into thrust, facilitating interplanetary travel while minimizing emissions associated with aerospace propulsion. By prioritizing cost-efficiency and waste reduction, Prime Lightworks aims to engineer innovative solutions that expand possibilities in space exploration.

RED 6 Inc. is a company specializing in outdoor augmented reality solutions aimed at enhancing air combat training. Founded in 2017 and headquartered in Santa Monica, California, it has developed the Airborne Tactical Augmented Reality System (ATARS). This innovative system allows real pilots in actual aircraft to engage with synthetically generated enemy threats in real time, utilizing augmented reality visors and an AI-driven multiplayer network. The technology also incorporates biometric feedback loops to optimize training experiences. RED 6's solutions are designed to revolutionize military training applications, enabling enhanced readiness and operational effectiveness for armed forces worldwide. In addition to military applications, the technology holds potential for various industries, including entertainment, sports, and medicine.

Spaceit provides a comprehensive solution for satellite ground operations through its cloud-based Mission Control System (MCS). This platform facilitates seamless satellite communications by offering access to a global network of ground stations, enabling satellite command and control, and supporting cross-network communication. Additionally, Spaceit's services include satellite simulators for live-fire cyber exercises and tools for the development, testing, and validation of satellite communication systems. The MCS is designed for flexible scaling and remote usage, featuring automated backups and maintenance to reduce operational costs. Through these offerings, Spaceit helps businesses effectively manage satellite missions and optimize their communication capabilities.

Clarvoyant specializes in a multi-platform suite of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) compatible tools that facilitate instant holographic prototyping and collaboration in engineering and design. Developed from technologies originally created at NASA and the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), these tools are aimed at supporting early-stage mission design and enabling companies to efficiently design spacecraft. By offering advanced capabilities for prototyping and collaboration, Clarvoyant helps streamline the engineering process for its clients.

Internest develops a precise positioning system tailored for rotating winged vehicles, such as drones and helicopters. The system features a local landing component that integrates both firmware and hardware, offering reliable and accurate positioning data regardless of visibility, weather, or environmental conditions. This technology is particularly beneficial for security, military, and maritime sectors, enhancing the operational safety of aerial vehicles during critical missions. By improving flight safety, Internest's solutions support various industries in effectively managing their aerial operations.

Hionos brings years of expertise in safety-critical avionics software to the world of drones. They make drones safer.

Phase Four LLC is a manufacturer of satellite propulsion systems based in Pasadena, California, founded in 2015. The company specializes in electric propulsion for small satellites, offering innovative products such as the CubeSats ambipolar thruster and the Maxwell plasma propulsion solution. Its core technology, the Radio Frequency Thruster (RFT), distinguishes itself by eliminating the need for a hollow cathode and high voltage electronics, resulting in significant cost savings, reduced size of power electronics, and compatibility with various propellants. Phase Four's propulsion systems are designed to be small and lightweight, featuring a patented magnetic nozzle to optimize thrust, allowing clients to effectively maneuver satellites into various orbits while minimizing operational costs. The company's products are utilized across commercial, civil, and scientific space missions, reflecting its commitment to advancing the capabilities of space exploration.

Optisys specializes in the manufacturing of radio frequency (RF) designs and metal additive products, focusing on the production of 3D printed antennas for aerospace and defense applications. The company’s innovative approach combines advanced design processes with metal additive manufacturing, allowing for the creation of integrated antenna and radar products that achieve low size, weight, power, and cost (SWaP-C). This capability enables clients to exercise comprehensive control over the design and manufacturing process, ensuring enhanced product performance and repeatability. Through its cutting-edge technology, Optisys aims to deliver significant improvements in system performance for its customers in the aerospace and defense sectors.

Natilus Inc., founded in 2016 and based in San Jose, California, develops innovative aircraft drones for freight forwarding. Co-founded by Aleksey Matyushev and Anatoly Starikov, the company aims to revolutionize the freight transport industry through advanced technology and design, leveraging a team with extensive experience in various aviation sectors. Natilus seeks to reduce air freight costs, making goods more affordable and enhancing global trade by connecting underdeveloped regions. The market for autonomous cargo aircraft is estimated to exceed $280 billion, and Natilus projects that its cost-effective solutions could expand the total addressable market to $470 billion. The company’s drones utilize carbon fiber composites and existing engine technology, allowing for efficient operation with standard air cargo containers. Its product line includes several models tailored for varying ranges and capacities, providing a comprehensive solution for transport and delivery companies.

WiN MS is a company that develops and markets diagnostic tools for aeronautical maintenance and monitoring systems for wired infrastructures, aimed at reducing risks associated with wiring malfunctions and cable theft. Their offerings include a breakdown locator assistance tool designed to minimize aircraft downtime and enhance electrical maintenance efficiency, as well as solutions for monitoring railway systems to deter wire theft. The company's technology serves various transportation applications, such as automobiles, buses, trucks, trains, and ships, alongside infrastructure sectors like electrical distribution and civil engineering. Founded in 2012 in Orsay, France, WiN MS emerged as a spin-off from the CEA-LIST Institute and has received support from notable French organizations for its research and development efforts. The company caters to clients in the aeronautics and railway industries, including major airlines and key railway operators.