ESRIC launches space resources accelerator to drive lunar exploration innovations

The European Space Resources Innovation Centre (ESRIC) has announced six ventures selected for its new Space Resources Accelerator, aiming to fast-track technologies critical to lunar exploration and in-situ resource utilisation (ISRU).

Source : rtl.lu
Date de publication : 04/12/2024

 

This initiative, part of the Business in Space Growth Network (BSGN) Industry Accelerators, will support six cutting-edge ventures as they develop technologies poised to transform lunar exploration and space resource industries.

The selected projects, according to an ESRIC press release, aim to advance the European Space Agency’s (ESA) lunar exploration initiatives and strengthen the entire space resources value chain. Participants will initially refine their proposals with in-kind support from ESRIC before embarking on ESA co-funded projects that will test their technologies in lunar conditions.

“With this first cohort from the Space Resources Accelerator (SRA) joining the ventures from their Start-Up Support Programme (SSP), ESRIC has now engaged with over 25 companies since its inception in 2020,” said Kathryn Hadler, Director of ESRIC. “We are proud to collaborate with the private sector to support their lunar exploration efforts and to accompany ventures throughout their scaling journey, from concept to scale-up, through our various programs.”

Six ventures selected to shape the future of lunar technology

The inaugural cohort features six ventures that span various aspects of space resource development, selected by a joint ESA-ESRIC evaluation panel:

  • FibreCoat (Germany) develops high-performance materials for sectors like defense, mobility, and construction, including fibre-based solutions for lunar infrastructure.
  • Maana Electric (Luxembourg): Established in 2018, Maana Electric specialises in ISRU and power generation for terrestrial and space applications. With €18 million in revenue and an order book exceeding €100 million, the company is advancing solar resource production for the Moon.
  • Orbital Matter (Poland): Launched in 2022, this start-up focuses on additive manufacturing in microgravity, enabling construction solutions for lunar infrastructure.
  • Orbit Fab (UK): The European arm of the US-based Orbit Fab group, founded in 2022, develops orbital refueling infrastructure. Their innovations, backed by €40 million in Series A funding, have the potential to refuel lunar landers, hoppers, and rovers.
  • Space Power (UK): Founded in 2022, Space Power is creating universal power-beaming solutions for space applications, including plasma cleaning technology to combat lunar dust and enhance efficiency.
  • Volta Space Technologies (Canada): Since its founding in 2020, Volta has been building a wireless power transmission satellite constellation aimed at providing energy for lunar settlers and global operations.

Bridging technology, finance, and public-private collaboration

The Space Resources Accelerator is tailored to bridge the gap between technological innovation and financial investment while fostering collaboration between public and private sectors. Over 14 countries submitted applications, with ventures ranging from Pre-Seed to Series A stages, demonstrating rapid growth and attracting significant investor interest.

“We designed this program in just one year, and I’m particularly proud of the connections we’ve built between technology, finance, and public-private initiatives,” said Alexander Godlewski, Business Accelerator Officer. “The ventures in this cohort are scaling rapidly, creating jobs, and attracting investors, showcasing the burgeoning market for Moon-compatible technologies. It’s time for more space agencies and investors to join forces to champion these Moon pioneers.”

A bright future for lunar exploration

With two key ESRIC programs now in full swing, the Space Resources Accelerator and Start-Up Support Programme collectively offer end-to-end support for ventures. The 2025 Dutch Grand Prix, set for August 29-31, will be an opportunity to showcase further project developments and innovations from this trailblazing cohort.

As these ventures push the boundaries of lunar exploration, ESRIC and ESA remain committed to empowering businesses and driving the next frontier of space discovery.

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