October 4, 2024, 2:41 pm
BREAKING NEWS
Impulse Space Raises $150M to Scale Satellite Mobility in Orbit
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- Update Time : Wednesday, October 2, 2024
Impulse Space, a startup focused on in-space transportation, has secured $150 million in Series B funding to expand its satellite maneuvering services. Founded by Tom Mueller, a former SpaceX CTO of propulsion, the company is developing cutting-edge orbital transfer vehicles (OTVs) to reposition satellites more efficiently after their launch. These OTVs, powered by high delta-v chemical propulsion systems, offer superior speed and maneuverability compared to current options.
High-Performance Orbital Vehicles
Impulse Space has introduced two orbital transfer vehicles: Mira, designed for last-mile satellite deliveries on ride-share launches, and Helios, a larger vehicle that moves satellites from low Earth orbit to geosynchronous orbit (GEO) in under 24 hours. This is significantly faster than current methods, which either cost more or take longer. Impulse’s high delta-v capabilities position the company as a key player in the growing market for satellite repositioning.
Industry Interest and Expansion
The company’s first mission, LEO Express-1, was a success in November 2023, with Mira completing the largest-ever orbit raise by an OTV. Impulse’s expertise has also attracted attention from the U.S. Department of Defense, earning multiple awards from the Space Force for its potential to enable faster satellite movement in orbit.
With a workforce of over 140 employees, primarily based in Redondo Beach, California, Impulse Space is preparing for its second mission, LEO Express-2, later this year. Future launches of upgraded versions of Mira and Helios are planned for 2025 and 2026, respectively.
Investors Bet on the Future of Space Mobility
The Series B funding was led by Founders Fund, with participation from existing investors Lux Capital and Spring Tide, along with new backers such as DCVC and Airbus Ventures. This latest round follows a $45 million Series A in July 2023, highlighting growing confidence in the company’s vision for in-space transportation.
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