We are pleased to share that ESA BIC UK alumni Astron Systems have been selected to join the prestigious Techstars Space Accelerator programme – carried out in partnership with the NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory and the United States Space Force (USSF).

Techstars Space Accelerator recently announced the 12 startups selected for the Fall Class of 2024. Each startup has a strong technical background and are going after big ideas in aerospace, including quantum technology for secure communications, AI-driven satellite data processing, in-space infrastructure for research, and reusable launch systems. Taking place in the tech ecosystem of Los Angeles, the three-month mentorship-driven programme will bring together founders from across the globe. Astron Systems are the only company on the programme from the United Kingdom.

Over the duration of their incubation on the ESA BIC UK programme, ESA BIC UK helped the company develop key components of the Aurora launch vehicle and business model. Working with ESA BIC UK’s Investor Readiness Program, successfully resulted in raising private equity funding into the business.

ESA BIC UK also helped Astron Systems to develop proof-of-concept hardware within the innovative, highly reusable propulsion system, which is core to the success of the fully reusable Aurora launch vehicle and whilst on the programme, the team had support to formulate a robust IP strategy and apply to patent key technology.

Astron Systems graduated from the ESA BIC UK programme at Harwell Campus in March 2024 and have since taken up tenancy at the Science and Technology Facilities Council’s Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, where the team can benefit from the thriving space ecosystem, the Harwell Space Cluster and office/laboratory space with support from STFC’s expertise.

This marks a big milestone in Astron Systems journey to making space access for small satellites more affordable, responsive and sustainable. We wish them the best of luck as they embark on their next chapter!