Big Idea:

Italian space logistics startup D-Orbit has raised $110 million for their satellite deployment and space operations business. The investment is led by Marubeni Corporation from Japan's industrial sector, with participation from various other investors.

What They Do:

D-Orbit provides last-mile satellite delivery, mission control services, and space waste management. The company's model involves a combination of software and hardware development and caters to both government and commercial space projects.

Why It Matters:

As a logistics provider for companies in the space industry, the company claims that its operational model saves 40% on costs and 85% on time by grouping multiple customers together and bulk-procuring around launches.

Key Details:

• D-Orbit's Series C funding of €100 million marks one of Europe's largest in the space tech sector.
• The ION Satellite Carrier created by D-Orbit has the capability to release hosted satellites individually, allowing for adjustments in orbital parameters between each deployment.

What's Next:

D-Orbit's founders, trained as engineers with expertise in space propulsion, flight dynamics, and aerodynamics, envision expanding their services to connect Mars, the asteroid belt, the moon, and Earth through a logistics network. The company also aims to contribute to the circular economy in space technology by addressing the growing issue of space debris through methods like decommissioning satellites and repurposing satellite parts in orbit.

By the Numbers:

• 100 satellites: Number of satellites deployed by D-Orbit across 13 missions
• $500 Million: D-Orbit's post-funding valuation