As the space economy accelerates, Earth-based industries are stepping into orbit. One company to note on this basis is Polimak, a veteran of industrial bulk material handling. Through its dedicated division, Polimak Space, the company is now taking its expertise in conveying, processing, and automated storage into the harsh environments of the Moon and beyond.
This work represents not only a technological leap, but also a clear example of a Spin-in innovation, where mature terrestrial technology is being successfully applied to solve new challenges in the space domain. Thus, in Polimak’s case, technologies developed over decades for use in industrial bulk material handling are now being tailored to operate in extreme space environments, like the Moon’s surface. These systems are being redesigned to:
- Function in low-gravity conditions
- Handle abrasive lunar dust (regolith)
- Work autonomously, without direct human intervention
- Support in-situ resource utilization (ISRU), a key part of making off-Earth industry viable
Polimak Space’ journey shows how traditional industries can successfully pivot to support a space-based future embracing commercial models, private partnerships, and rapid innovation to tackle the unique demands of the space industry.
For decades Polimak has delivered innovations and automation in industrial settings. Now, the company is retooling these systems for extraterrestrial use, adapting them for lunar regolith transport, in-situ resource utilisation (ISRU), and autonomous material handling on other celestial bodies.
It is important to note that Polimak Space is not navigating the complexities of space exploration alone. Collaboration sits at the heart of their mission, and they are actively engaging with key players across the European space ecosystem to bring their innovative ideas to life. A key enabler in their journey has been the ESRIC (European Space Resources Innovation Centre) Start-Up Support Programme. Through this program, Polimak Space gains access not only to funding but also to a robust mentorship network, technical facilities, and industry insights that accelerate the development of their space-adapted bulk handling technologies.
Polimak Space is a partner of the Astroport Space Technologies consortium, selected by NASA for a Phase 2 STTR award to refine the concept of operations and system architecture for Lunar Landing & Launch Pad site preparation and construction. As part of this project, Polimak Space’s role focuses on advancing technologies for the conveyance, storage, and transloading of lunar regolith to support these critical infrastructure developments.
In addition, Polimak Space has established a collaborative relationship with Planetary Transportation Systems GmbH, a German space tech company, developing solutions for transforming space debris into valuable construction materials for lunar infrastructure. This partnership is a major step forward in their field testing efforts. By working within a realistic lunar simulation environment, the two companies can explore practical solutions in supporting lunar infrastructure and sustainability.
As humanity looks beyond Earth for sustainable industry and habitation, it’s companies like Polimak Space that are laying the groundwork for what comes next. By leveraging decades of industrial expertise and forming bold collaborations within the European space ecosystem, Polimak isn’t just adapting to the future of space exploration, they’re actively building it.