Hitchhiker Orbital designs orbital research platforms and infrastructure for experimentation, hosted payloads, and longer-term space operations. The early-stage company concentrates on the often-overlooked work after launch, developing adaptable enclosures and systems intended to support science while addressing orbital congestion and maintenance. Its team combines former NASA mission and test engineers with experienced aerospace and mechanical designers, and the company is also researching the cost of hosted payloads in low Earth orbit.
Marhold Space Systems LLCFounded by aerospace engineer Frank Marin, Marhold Space Systems is a young space-technology company developing infrastructure for safer, more sustainable orbital operations. Its work is aimed at helping space missions remain useful longer while supporting a future in which development and manufacturing can take place in orbit.BALLSTON LAKE, NY
LESATH International IncFounded by aerospace and business leaders including former NASA and commercial-launch veterans, LESATH International is developing a highly reusable orbital launch platform for rapid delivery of cargo to varied trajectories. Its SCORPIUS I vehicle is designed around a MethaLOX-cooled engine and modular payload capability, with the company aiming to broaden access to orbit for civilian, government, and first-time space customers.BUFFALO, NY
Icarus RoboticsIcarus Robotics is building intelligent robots to serve as a labor force in space, beginning with human-in-the-loop control and learning from demonstration. Its machines are intended to handle work such as cargo operations and orbital construction, allowing astronauts to concentrate on research and exploration. The company’s founding team combines experience in NASA and ISS agricultural systems, NASA JPL lunar rovers, hospital robotics, and Formula 1 engineering.GLENELG, MD
Beyond Reach LabsFounded by engineers with backgrounds at SpaceX, Carnegie Mellon University, and leading aerospace research institutions, Beyond Reach Labs develops deployable solar arrays for orbital power. Its work addresses the structural challenges that have limited the size of space-based energy systems, serving future operators of infrastructure beyond Earth.333998PITTSBURGH, PA