The EPFL Space Center spin-off is developing satelites to find, capture and remove non-responsive and functioning satellites from their orbits in space. Clearspace has now obtained a Tech Seed loan of CHF 100’000 from the Foundation for Technological Innovation (FIT).
The three founders of ClearSpace, Luc Piguet (CEO), Muriel Richard (Tech Lead) and Catherine Johnson (Design) are on a mission to remove about 3’000 deficient satellites currently in orbit around the earth. With the growing number of small size satellites, ClearSpace evaluates that in 2022, 800 satellites will be launched yearly and 100 to 200 deficient satellites would then have to be deorbited each year to maintain a durable space operation.
The Ecublens (VD) based startup has developed agile satellites that can find, capture and remove non-functioning or unresponsive satellites from their orbits in space. The systems can also navigate and catch the object semi-autonomously. The company is currently working on CleanSpace One powered by sensors and algorithms to demonstrate the set of technologies necessary for these operations.
To progress with the development of their technology, ClearSpace has secured a seed loan of CHF 100'000 from the FIT. The funds also enable the company to negotiate its first substantial fundraising.
Alongside the three founders and a team of 11 employees, the startup receives support from ESA BIC Switzerland and Innosuisse, the EPFL and the European Space Agency.
(Press release/RAN)
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