German space-tech firm ISPTech has successfully closed a $6.5 million seed funding round to advance its non-toxic spacecraft propulsion systems. Led by Join Capital, the investment will help the company scale its solutions for agile and efficient in-orbit maneuvering. This funding arrives as the space industry urgently seeks safer and more cost-effective alternatives to traditional, hazardous propellants.
Addressing a Critical Need in Orbit
As low Earth orbit becomes increasingly congested, the demand for advanced mobility solutions has surged. Spacecraft must now perform complex maneuvers to shift orbits and avoid collisions with unprecedented reliability and speed. This operational necessity highlights the limitations of existing propulsion technologies, which often lack the required agility.
Simultaneously, regulatory bodies are moving to ban toxic propellants like hydrazine due to their significant health and environmental risks. This legislative pressure is compelling satellite manufacturers to adopt cleaner, next-generation propulsion systems. The industry-wide shift creates a significant market opportunity for innovative and compliant technologies.
Pioneering Non-Toxic Propulsion Solutions
Emerging from over a decade of research at the German Aerospace Center (DLR), ISPTech is directly addressing these industry challenges. The company has developed a portfolio of advanced propulsion systems designed to be powerful, scalable, and environmentally friendly. Its technologies are poised to redefine mobility for a wide range of spacecraft, from small CubeSats to large satellites.
ISPTech’s offerings include the HyNOx system, valued for its robustness and affordability, and the patented HIP_11 technology. HIP_11 uses a unique self-igniting propellant as a direct replacement for toxic hypergols and features a novel multi-mode capability for both efficient and high-thrust maneuvers. Together, these systems provide comprehensive solutions for diverse mission profiles.
Accelerating Commercial Deployment and Future Missions
The new capital will be instrumental in expanding ISPTech's manufacturing capabilities and critical testing infrastructure. This strategic investment is aimed at accelerating the commercial rollout of its propulsion systems to meet growing customer demand. The funding ensures the company is well-positioned to scale its operations and solidify its market presence.
ISPTech has already gained significant commercial traction, with two customer missions currently in preparation for launch. The first small satellite equipped with its technology is scheduled to enter orbit in 2026, and the company has secured key contracts with operators like Atmos Space Cargo. Further development is also supported by projects with the European Space Agency, validating its long-term potential.
This $6.5 million investment marks a pivotal moment for ISPTech, empowering it to deliver the next generation of in-space mobility. By transforming propulsion from a constraint into an enabler, the company is paving the way for a more dynamic, sustainable, and functional space economy. ISPTech's innovative solutions are set to play a crucial role in the future of satellite operations and in-orbit services.