Innovative Satellite Tech Takes Flight

A startup is gearing up for some serious space missions. The company has secured early-stage funding to push forward with its unique satellite technology. The company is keeping the exact amount of money raised under wraps. But it is clear that this funding will help the company reach some major goals soon. The company plans to launch a test version of its technology into space. This will be a big step in proving that their ideas work. The company also plans to send an engineering model of its full satellite on a special flight that creates a weightless environment, similar to space. The company's big idea is a patented technology called Multifunctional Structures for Attitude Control. This tech was created by the company's co-founder and chief technology officer, along with a director from the University of Illinois. The goal is to make flat satellites, called Hummingbird, with special parts that help control the satellite's position and movement. These parts are embedded in the solar panel hinges and use something called piezoelectric actuators. The company believes this tech can change how spacecraft are built and operated.The company's first big test is scheduled to happen in October. Their technology will hitch a ride on a SpaceX mission to low-Earth orbit. This will be a crucial test to show that their core technology works as expected. After that, the company plans to test their Hummingbird engineering unit on a Zero-G flight in November. This will help them understand how their tech performs in a weightless environment. The company has big plans for the future, aiming to send a 50-kilogram Hummingbird into orbit by late 2026. The company is also looking for customers who might want to use their technology. They have space available on their tech demo and are eager to find interested parties. If there is enough demand, the company is open to expanding the size of their Hummingbird satellites. This could lead to even more innovative uses for their technology. The company's journey is just beginning, but they are already making waves in the space industry with their unique approach to satellite design and control.