Gravitics Signs a New $125-milion Accord With Axiom Space

Axiom Space’s mission to build the world’s first commercial space station is now fully supported by Gravitics. The collaboration, signed on July 9, 2024 of a $125 million contract, will broaden commercial opportunities by sending the largest spacecraft module ever sent in orbit.

*Artist conception of Gravitics’ StarMax in orbit. Credits: Gravitics*

The fascinating StarMax module of 4-meter class payloads is currently undergoing infrastructure validation. The advanced and original projects have been awarded on multiple occasions during 2024. The numerous awards will help to develop in-space manufacturing, microgravity research, and enhance space tourism.

Gravitics Vision and Design

Founded in 2021, the company focuses on manufacturing large space structures, including pressurized space station modules (which prototypes have already tested on March 16^th of 2023) and scalable space platforms. The space station products under development are focused on 4-meter, 6-meter, and 8-meter configurable modules. The aim is to provide the largest interior volume ever deployed in orbit.

*Successful first pressure test on StarMax Prototype on March 16, 2023. Credits: Gravitics*

Meanwhile, advancements in new launch vehicles are expanding possibilities for maximum payload mass and volume to be launched into space. Launcher developments, such as the already tested Ariane 6, ULA Vulcan Centaur, New Glenn, and Starship, promise to enable wider diameters for space station modules, ranging from 4-meter to as large as 8-meter class payloads.

*The concept idea of storage of 4-meter, 6-meter, and 8-meter class of StarMax modules inside Falcon 9, New Gleen, and Starship. Credits: Gravitics*

The StarMax module is equipped with docking systems for seamless integration, advanced MMOD shielding to protect from orbital debris, and retractable shades for customizable light control. Technologies such as state-of-the-art space batteries, versatile propellant tanks, and high-performance thrusters are still in the development phase.

NASA’s high investment in next-generation space station

On January 5th, 2024, NASA announced a $99.5 million investment in next-generation space stations to further Low Earth Orbit (LEO) commercialization. Primary partners include Blue Origin, receiving $172 million for Orbital Reef development, and Voyager Space, receiving $217.5 million for Starlab development. Contract updates also pertain to Axiom’s finances, involving the attachment of their modules to the ISS.

Gravitics showcased the high capabilities of the 8-meter StarMax module mockup, demonstrating the company’s vision for large and efficient space environments. Supported by partnerships with Rocket Lab USA, True Anomaly, Space Exploration Engineering, and Eta Space, on April 25th, 2024, SpaceWERX awarded a $1.7 million SBIR Direct-to-Phase II contract. Just three months later, the new contract for the company demonstrated the high efficiency and capability of the company.

On Thursday, August 17, 2023, members of Gravitics’ team and U.S. Rep. Rick Larsen stood in front of a mockup of a space module interior at Gravitics’ Marysville facility. Pictured left to right: Jiral Shah, Rick Larsen, Mike DeRosa, and Scott Macklin. Credits: Gravitics — *Members of Gravitics’ team and U.S. Rep. Rick Larsen stand in front of a mockup of a space module interior at Marysville facility. Credits: Gravitics*

“Gravitics is developing a common set of products to support both commercial and national security needs. We combine next-gen products with competitive prices and reduced time to market. Customers see this as a winning combination. We look forward to a highly productive partnership with Axiom Space.”
— Colin Doughan, CEO at Gravitics