Sidereus Space Dynamics, a startup specializing in single-stage space launchers, announced on September 25, 2023 that it has secured funding of €5.1 million from Primo Space and CDP Venture Capital Sgr. This investment, in addition to the €2.5 million received in 2022, will enable Sidereus to expedite the development of its EOS vehicle.
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Background and Goals of Sidereus Space Dynamics
Founded in Naples in 2019 by Mattia Barbarossa, Luca Principi, and Massimiliano Masciarelli, Sidereus Space Dynamics aims to be at the forefront of spacecraft innovation.
Their ongoing project involves constructing EOS, a rocket designed specifically for small satellites, intending to become the smallest orbital rocket ever created. By prioritizing versatility, sustainability, and safety alongside cutting-edge technologies, EOS will serve as a platform that facilitates technological advancements in space exploration while significantly reducing both time durations and costs associated with space flights.
EOS in Detail
EOS is a unique space launcher, currently under development. It is a single-stage-to-orbit (SSTO) vehicle, a feature that sets it apart from the current landscape.
The payload of EOS is limited to about a dozen kg, but this does not diminish its importance. In fact, it not only focuses on the rapid launch of small satellites but also offers a unique feature. Once in space, EOS has the ability to open its payload bay, exposing the payload to the vacuum of space to collect various information and data. Afterward, the payload bay closes, and after a series of orbits, the vehicle can return to Earth with a certain precision. For re-entry, EOS uses the skip re-entry trajectory maneuver. During descent, it then uses a parafoil as a glider, thus avoiding a powered landing.
What's a #rocket engine without tanks? Just a ground #flamethrower.
— Sidereus Space Dynamics (@SidereusD) March 16, 2023
At Sidereus, we have started preparations for the dry tests and later the wet dress rehearsal of the first ever created and tested self-supporting balloon tanks for a Single Stage to Orbit.#EOS #SSTO pic.twitter.com/TJEfSRJgzC
One of the most significant innovations of EOS is the possibility to provide the launcher to the customer with a few weeks notice. With the help of Sidereus technicians, the customer can integrate their payload and manage the launch at the nearest launch point. So within a few days from integration, the satellite can be launched and brought into orbit.
EOS stands out as one of the few launchers dedicated to microsat and CubeSats. Currently, if a customer wants to launch their own CubeSat, they are forced to integrate it with other satellites for a group launch, known as “rideshare”. With EOS, this requirement will no longer be necessary.
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Investment Details
Regarding investment details, this recent Seed+ investment totaling €5.1 million marks a milestone towards executing preflight and flight tests for the new generation single-stage launcher. Both funds had previously participated in a funding round in 2021. Became shareholders of the Italian company as a result. This additional capital injection aims to support Sidereus’ ambitious goals by propelling the company into the flight and flight test stages that precede their experimental orbital launch campaign.
The funding from this round will enable Sidereus to grow its team and advance in the flight and flight testing phases. This critical stage will culminate in the maiden launch, establishing the foundation for EOS’ future commercial flights.
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