In a significant boost to the New Space industry, Impulse Space, a transportation start-up, has successfully raised $150 million in its latest funding round. This substantial investment, underscores the growing confidence in innovative space logistics solutions and positions Impulse Space as a key player in the orbital transfer and beyond vehicle market.
Founded by Thomas Mueller, a former SpaceX engineer renowned for his expertise in propulsion systems, Impulse Space is pioneering the development of “space tugs” –transfer vehicles designed to precisely deliver satellites and payloads to their intended location. This technology promises to revolutionize the final leg of space transportation, offering a more efficient and cost-effective approach to satellite and spaceecraft deployment.
Impulse’s product line currently features two vehicles: the compact Mira and the larger Helios. These space tugs function as orbital taxis, complementing traditional rocket launches by providing the crucial last-mile delivery in space. The company recently marked a significant milestone with the successful completion of its LEO Express-1 mission, utilizing a Mira vehicle to deploy a small satellite.
The newly secured funding will accelerate the development of Impulse’s ambitious Helios vehicle and an enhanced version of Mira. Helios, tailored for medium-lift launch vehicles, aims to transport payloads exceeding 5 tons from Low Earth Orbit (LEO) to Geosynchronous Orbit (GEO) in under 24 hours. This capability could dramatically reduce the costs and complexities associated with accessing Medium Earth Orbit (MEO), GEO, and beyond.
Impulse Space has already garnered attention from both commercial and government sectors. The company’s roadmap includes the upcoming LEO Express-2 mission later this year, with plans to launch an updated Mira vehicle in late 2025 and introduce Helios by mid-2026.
As the space industry continues to evolve, companies like Impulse Space are developing technologies that will shape the future of space exploration. This significant funding round not only validates Impulse Space’s vision but also highlights the growing importance of specialized space logistics services in the expanding commercial New Space ecosystem.
Image Credit: Impulse Space – Rendering of the Impulse Space Helios kick stage.
Impulse Space Secures $150M for Innovative Space Tug
