Lúnasa is developing next-gen technologies and services for enabling the In-Orbit Services, Assembly, and Manufacturing (ISAM) industry. The company is focused on building and commercialising its autonomous Rendezvous Proximity Operations (RPO) technology for satellite servicing missions and operates testbeds in orbit to provide affordable tech rideshare for ISAM companies for in-orbit validation purposes.

Challenge:

The future of the space industry and the growth of the space economy require the capability to perform in-orbit services (refuelling, life extension, repair, assembly, manufacturing, etc).

To provide these services, satellites must be able to navigate in close proximity to other spacecraft and often dock/capture, which is inherently risky.

As such, Lúnasa is building a commercial AI-based vision navigation system which enables satellites to autonomously perform RPO with client satellites for ISAM operations.

Moreover, while the global ISAM industry is currently building technologies for their upcoming space operations, they are required to validate the technologies in a real environment before their commercial missions. However, considering the risk element of such ISAM-related technologies and operations, Lúnasa is using its background in RPO technologies and operations to build advanced testbeds in orbit, capable of providing affordable tech hosting and rideshare services. As such, ISAM companies can validate their technology and mission operations in a real environment with significantly lower cost and reduced time.

Solution:

• Funding of €50,000

• One-on-one business advice, including investment readiness training and pitch coaching

• Technical support and expertise from STFC

• Networking opportunities across the Harwell Science and Innovation Campus

The Benefits:

When Lúnasa joined ESA BIC UK in May 2022, the company was able to access a pool of talent in the community and quickly started recruiting skilled engineers to accelerate the development. Additionally, Lúnasa was introduced by ESA BIC to several Harwell organisations such as Satellite Applications Catapult for partnering up and advancing the technology development through accessing novel testing facilities.

As a result, Lúnasa was able to close a pre-seed funding round and win multiple grants from the UK Space Agency and ESA.

Lúnasa will launch its first testbed by 2025 under the UK Space Agency funding, which will validate its novel vision-based navigation solution for autonomous RPO in orbit, and host other technologies. This success will establish Lúnasa’s flight heritage, catalyse further investments, and unlock further commercial contracts.

“I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to be incubated in the ESA BIC UK in Harwell. The experience has been nothing short of transformative for Lúnasa. From the moment we were accepted into the programme, we knew we were in good hands. The support and guidance provided by the ESA BIC team have been invaluable every step of the way.

“Through workshops, networking events, and one-on-one mentoring sessions, we have gained insights and connections that have accelerated our progress and expanded our vision. But perhaps the most valuable aspect of our experience in the ESA BIC has been the sense of community and camaraderie. Being surrounded by like-minded entrepreneurs who share our passion for space and technology has been incredibly motivating and inspiring.”

Amin Chabi, Founder and CEO, Lúnasa Space

Find out more about Lúnasa Space.