The mission will host power beaming payloads from, in alphabetical order: ORiS (Italy), TerraSpark (Luxembourg), Volta Space Technologies (Canada/USA), alongside two additional partners (to be announced). Together, they form a diverse group of leading companies to jointly advance the future of space-based power systems – demonstrating both optical and Radio Frequency (RF) power transmission on a single flight demonstration.

With ARAQYS-D3, Dcubed is building toward a new paradigm of space infrastructure centered around scalable, in-orbit power generation. The mission will demonstrate a novel class of solar array technology designed specifically for space operation—rather than being constrained by launch—unlocking new levels of scalability and affordability by using In-Space Manufacturing building blocks and Dcubed’s proven solar array technology.

By integrating multiple, multi-modal power beaming demonstrations on a single platform, ARAQYS-D3 will serve as a pathfinder for shared energy architectures in orbit. This approach lays the groundwork for “Power-as-a-Service” (PaaS), where satellites can access external power sources to extend mission lifetimes, increase payload performance, and enable entirely new mission concepts.

“At Dcubed, we are building Power-as-a-Service from the ground up,” said Dr. Thomas Sinn, CEO of Dcubed GmbH. “We demonstrated our capability at the component level with our release actuators, scaled to subsystems with our solar arrays, and are now tackling the service layer together with our partners. ARAQYS-D3 is the next logical step in that evolution, yet again solving the next bottleneck of the space economy, availability of unlimited affordable power anywhere in space.”

“This partner selection reflects the growing momentum behind in-space power infrastructure,” Sinn added. “By bringing together leading players from across continents, ARAQYS-D3 becomes more than a mission—it becomes an ecosystem demonstration.”

The mission will also act as Dcubed’s first “Space Power Plant”, showcasing how power generation and distribution can evolve into shared infrastructure in orbit. In addition to enabling new commercial capabilities, such systems will also enhance the resilience of the space infrastructure.

ARAQYS-D3 is scheduled to launch with SpaceX as early as February 2027, with the satellite platform provided by Astro Digital.

About Dcubed: Dcubed focuses on two core verticals: Release Actuators and Power Solutions, enabling the next generation of scalable space infrastructure. The company’s flight-proven release mechanisms provide reliable deployment at the component level, while its solar arrays unlock new capabilities at the subsystem and infrastructure level.

Building on this foundation, Dcubed is advancing both next-generation solar array solutions and Power-as-a-Service under its brand ARAQYS, developing technologies and architectures that enable energy generation, distribution, and utilization in orbit. With a track record validated by more than 130 customers, and deep expertise in deployable structures and in-space manufacturing, Dcubed is uniquely positioned to drive this evolution.

With offices in Munich, Germany, and Berthoud, Colorado, USA, Dcubed’s mission is to be the company that builds space — delivering the technologies and infrastructure that power the space industry across orbit, the Moon, and beyond.

Media Contact: Thomas Sinn, thomas.sinn@dcubed-space.com, www.dcubed.space / www.araqys.com

About ORiS: A leading European company in laser power beaming for space and defense applications. Their mission is to distribute space-based energy to satellite operators, whether already in orbit or across future satellite platforms, without requiring additional onboard hardware.

More at: www.oris-space.com

About TerraSpark: TerraSpark is a European startup founded in 2025 that develops space-based solar energy using a modular approach. By capturing solar energy in space and safely transmitting it to Earth via radio frequency, TerraSpark aims to create a new global energy infrastructure. The management team combines aerospace engineering expertise with proven scaling experience from building billion-dollar European technology companies.

More at: www.terraspark.energy

About Volta Space Technologies: Volta is building the energy grid for sustainable lunar operations, enabling endless and affordable power to lunar surface missions. Volta’s Optical Wireless Power Transmission (OWPT) stack has been funded in part by CSA, NASA, ESA, NATO, the Canadian DND, the U.S. Department of War, Operational Energy-Innovation Office, and Naval Research Lab. Volta will demonstrate the first receiver landing on the Moon in 2027 with Firefly Aerospace, begin orbital power services in 2029, and subsequently extending the reach of future lunar-based power systems like nuclear fission.

Volta is leveraging its success with wireless power to develop new capabilities to address Defense use cases in space and in the harshest conditions on earth.

Media Contact: news@voltaspace.co, https://www.voltaspace.co/

Dcubed GmbH has entered into a strategic partnership with EnduroSat, satellite infrastructure builder to support the serial production of company’s next-generation ESPA-class satellite platform, FRAME. Under the agreement, Dcubed will supply its flight-proven HDRMs for critical deployment functions on board the spacecraft.

As part of the partnership, Dcubed’s Micro Release Nuts (uD3RN) will be used to deploy the satellite’s solar array power subsystems in orbit—one of the most mission-critical phases of any spacecraft operation. The selection of Dcubed reflects its strong technical heritage, proven in-flight performance, and ability to meet demanding program constraints.

A key factor in reaching the agreement was Dcubed’s ability to commit to an aggressive delivery schedule within a highly constrained budget. This was made possible by the company’s serial production approach and robust, well-established supply chain. In addition to its technical credibility, Dcubed’s highly responsive and collaborative team played a decisive role in enabling the partnership to move forward quickly.

Viktor Danchev, CTO at Endurosat commented: “Dcubed’s flight-proven HDRMs are helping us bring down the cost of any space data and accelerate time to orbit with a secure supply chain.”

Markus Geiss, Chief Commercial Officer at Dcubed, added: “Dcubed is excited to work as a strategic partner with leading New Space companies like EnduroSat across the US and Europe. By leveraging our existing release mechanism and power subsystem technologies, we are helping enable the space infrastructure of the future.”

Looking ahead, Dcubed continues to innovate in the development of larger and more powerful release actuators, including the Milli Release Nut, which may be perfectly suitable for ESPA-class satellite platforms such as FRAME. In parallel, the company’s pioneering work on large, high-power ISM solar arrays—designed to be manufactured and deployed in orbit—further strengthens its position as a technology leader supporting the growing in-space economy.

About EnduroSat

EnduroSat is a satellite manufacturer and space services provider, streamlining space missions in low Earth orbit (LEO) and beyond. The company manages every step – from mission design to launch and operations – serving over 400 customers globally and employing more than 300 space professionals across 7 locations worldwide.

About Dcubed

Dcubed enables the future of space missions with high-performance, flight-proven release mechanisms and solar arrays. From cutting-edge Release Actuators to scalable Deployable Solar Arrays, our technologies are designed for user friendliness, availability, and reliability — whether for smallsats in LEO or large missions to Moon, Mars and beyond.

Headquartered in Munich, Germany, with a manufacturing presence in Denver, Colorado, Dcubed serves a global space industry with off-the-shelf and customizable hardware that accelerates mission timelines and reduces cost and risk.

With a proven track record of over 150 products in space, we are at the forefront of In-Space Manufacturing and are proud to push the boundaries of what’s possible with lightweight, compact, and efficient deployable systems. We work closely with satellite integrators, subsystem builders, space agencies, primes, and emerging players across the globe — building the enabling technologies that will power the next generation of commercial and exploration missions.

Munich, Germany — 11th of December — Dcubed is delighted to announce that it has been selected by Sidus Space to supply Nano Pin Pullers for the next generation of LizzieSat satellites. The release mechanisms will be used to deploy eight rigid solar arrays per spacecraft once in orbit, supporting Sidus’s continued innovation in compact satellite design. 

For earlier missions, Sidus utilized internally developed burn wire release systems. As the LizzieSat platform evolved, Sidus sought a more streamlined and scalable deployment solution. After evaluating multiple options, Sidus selected Dcubed’s nano pin pullers. 

Dcubed’s mechanisms were chosen for their resettable and scalable design, offering a significant improvement over single use burn wire systems. Their proven flight heritage and rapid delivery capability also played a key role in the decision, helping Sidus accelerate testing and de-risk satellite assembly ahead of launch. 

Engineering models have already been delivered, and the testing campaign is underway through Q4 2025. Flight unit delivery is scheduled for December 2025, keeping the LizzieSat micro-constellation firmly on track. 

“Integrating Dcubed’s Nano Pin Pullers into our LizzieSat platform enhances our deployment architecture,” said Carol Craig, Founder and CEO of Sidus Space. “Their resettable Hold-Down and Release Mechanisms (HDRMs) technology replaces single-use systems, enabling rapid test cycles and reducing integration risk. These capabilities are critical as we scale our constellation and maintain precision and reliability under aggressive timelines.”  

“We’re proud that Sidus Space has placed its trust in our release mechanisms,” said Dr. Thomas Sinn, CEO, Dcubed. “Our nano pin pullers have a strong record of performance and reusability, and we’re confident they’ll contribute to the success of the LizzieSat micro-constellation. This partnership is an exciting step that we believe will lead to deeper collaboration in the future.” 

As demand grows for faster, more flexible spacecraft production, Dcubed continues to build its reputation as one of the world’s most capable providers of responsive manufacturing solutions for dynamic space missions. 

About Dcubed  

Dcubed enables the future of space missions with high-performance, flight-proven release mechanisms and solar arrays. From cutting-edge Release Actuators to scalable Deployable Solar Arrays, our technologies are designed for user friendliness, availability, and reliability — whether for smallsats in LEO or large missions to Moon, Mars and beyond.   

Headquartered in Munich, Germany, with a manufacturing presence in Denver, Colorado, Dcubed serves a global space industry with off-the-shelf and customizable hardware that accelerates mission timelines and reduces cost and risk.   

With a proven track record of over 150 products in space, we are at the forefront of In-Space Manufacturing and are proud to push the boundaries of what’s possible with lightweight, compact, and efficient deployable systems. We work closely with satellite integrators, subsystem builders, space agencies, primes, and emerging players across the globe — building the enabling technologies that will power the next generation of commercial and exploration missions.

For more information, visit: www.dcubed-space.com 

About Sidus Space  

Sidus Space® (NASDAQ: SIDU) is an innovative space and defense technology provider offering flexible, cost-effective solutions, including satellite manufacturing and technology integration, AI-driven space-based data solutions, mission planning and management operations, AI/ML products and services, and space and defense hardware manufacturing. With its mission of Space Access Reimagined®, Sidus Space is committed to rapid innovation, adaptable and cost-effective solutions, and the optimization of space system and data collection performance. With demonstrated space heritage, including manufacturing and operating its own satellite and sensor system, LizzieSat®, Sidus Space serves government, defense, intelligence, and commercial companies around the globe. Strategically headquartered on Florida’s Space Coast, Sidus Space operates a 35,000-square-foot space manufacturing, assembly, integration, and testing facility and provides easy access to nearby launch facilities.

For more information, visit: www.sidusspace.com 

Bremen, Germany — 18th of November 2025 — Dcubed GmbH, a leader in release actuators, deployable space structures and In-Space Manufacturing (ISM) technologies, today announced its expansion into space-based energy systems with the introduction of ARAQYS — the power solution for space. With ARAQYS, Dcubed is positioning itself as the category leader in delivering affordable, scalable, and unlimited energy in orbit.

After SpaceX, Rocket Lab, and others transformed access to space through lower launch costs and increased capacity, a new generation of in-orbit applications—from data centers, high delta-v transportation and direct-to-device communications to defense constellations—has emerged. Each shares a common challenge: a massive demand for affordable, scalable power.

ARAQYS addresses this by providing a full spectrum of space power solutions—from traditional deployable solar arrays to their proprietary in-space-manufactured kW solar array subsystems, and ultimately to Space Power Plants capable of beaming energy wherever it’s needed. This technology aims to dramatically reduce the cost per kilowatt, laying the groundwork for space infrastructure and directed-energy platforms of the future.

“Dcubed is fully committed to leading the next frontier: power generation in orbit,” said Dr. Thomas Sinn, CEO of Dcubed. “My involvement in a NASA NIAC study on space-based solar power more than 15 years ago set this journey in motion. Since then, we’ve been steadily developing the technologies required to make in-space energy a practical reality. With ARAQYS, we’re now combining those years of innovation into affordable large-scale power solutions designed to meet the demands of the rapidly growing space economy.”

The ARAQYS-D3 Mission: Building the Future of Space Power

As the next step toward this vision, Dcubed announced the ARAQYS-D3 mission, which is manifested for launch in Q1 2027 aboard a SpaceX Rideshare mission. This mission will demonstrate a 2kW in-space-manufactured solar array with combined application cases in power-beaming and directed energy, as well as demonstrating electric-propulsion-enabled high delta-v capabilities.

The ARAQYS-D3 satellite will be built by Astro Digital, a heritage spacecraft bus provider located just a few miles from Dcubed USA’s headquarters in Berthoud, Colorado. This close proximity enables tight collaboration between European and American teams, symbolizing transatlantic cooperation in advancing the next era of space systems.

The launch of ARAQYS-D3 is brokered by Maverick Space Systems, who will also provide launch management and integration services for the satellite. Maverick’s support will help Dcubed streamline the launch process, reduce risk, and allow us to focus on the ARAQYS-D3 mission.

“We’re excited to partner with Dcubed on this groundbreaking mission,” said Chris Biddy, CEO of Astro Digital. “The ARAQYS-D3 satellite will demonstrate how in-space manufacturing and large-scale economic power generation can unlock a new class of small satellites—capable of generating, storing, and transmitting the energy required for the next generation of orbital missions.”

“We’re grateful to be supporting the launch of the ARAQYS-D3 mission,” said Roland Coelho, CEO of Maverick Space. “We see this as just the beginning of a close collaboration with Dcubed on future projects and developments.”

Dr. Sinn added: “It’s an honor to partner with Astro Digital and Maverick. This collaboration brings Europe and the United States closer together, uniting two space ecosystems to shape the future of satellite design and space power delivery.”

The production of the ARAQYS-D3 spacecraft and the ISM solar array will be conducted across Dcubed’s facilities in Munich, Germany, and Berthoud, Colorado, USA, demonstrating the company’s bi-continental production capability and readiness for megawatt-scale manufacturing. The launch integration will be carried out by Maverick Space Systems from San Luis Obispo, California.

Paving the Way: ARAQYS-D1 and ARAQYS-D2

ARAQYS-D3 builds on two precursor missions that are already integrated and ready for launch on two separate SpaceX rideshare missions in Q1 2026:

• Dcubed-1 (internally known as ARAQYS-D1) “BOOM! THERE IT IS”, a 3U satellite that will manufacture a 60 cm ISM boom directly in free space.
• ARAQYS-D2 “WATTS NEW IN SPACE”, which will print and deploy a 1 m-long ISM solar array aboard Exotrail’s next SpaceVan mission.

These demonstrations will validate the building blocks of in-space power generation, paving the way for ARAQYS-D3’s multi-kilowatt-class system.

Scaling the Business

After seven years of building capabilities and delivering over 1,500 flight-proven products to more than 120 customers across four continents, Dcubed is leveraging its deep heritage in deployable mechanisms to power the next phase of orbital industrialization. Dcubed’s Actuators+ business unit continues to serve as a cornerstone, providing flight-proven reliability and financial flexibility as Dcubed expands into in-space energy systems through ARAQYS.

About the Companies

About Astro Digital

From concept to constellation, Astro Digital provides customers with complete space-based systems and mission support services for applications such as Earth observation, satellite communications, ISAM, science, and technology demonstrations.

About Maverick Space Systems

Maverick Space Systems provides cost-effective and responsive end-to-end launch integration solutions. Maverick’s key competencies include mission management, launch deployment hardware, and launch integration services for satellites. The team at Maverick combines industry experience with agility and efficiency to provide their customers with a turnkey service in getting their payloads to orbit.

About Dcubed

Dcubed GmbH is building the foundation for tomorrow’s space industry. From release mechanisms to the deployable and ISM ARAQYS solar arrays, Dcubed’s technologies enable spacecraft to construct, assemble, and power themselves and others directly in orbit. Operating from Munich, Germany, and Berthoud, Colorado, USA, Dcubed’s vision is to deliver affordable, scalable infrastructure that powers space utilization across LEO, the Moon, and beyond.

Media Contact

Thomas Sinn
thomas.sinn@dcubed-space.com
www.dcubed.space / www.araqys.com

Dcubed will deliver the solar array power subsystem for the first of five Intuitive Machines satellites. The system includes two rigid deployable solar wings with a 2 kW end-of-life total power output. Leveraging Dcubed’s agile development capabilities and robust supply chain, Dcubed has committed to a rapid delivery schedule. Moreover, the construction of the array will leverage Dcubed’s state of the art robotic assembly line that is key to Dcubed’s industrialization strategy.  

“The data network we’re building lays the foundation for sustainable lunar operations by providing data, transmission, and navigation services essential for exploration and infrastructure so customers can access, coordinate, and act on space data with minimal latency,” said Gary Spexarth, Lander Production Manager for Intuitive Machines. “Dcubed’s responsiveness and reliable solar array technology support the pace and precision required to deploy the Lunar Data Network as part of our broader Space Data Network.”  

The Lunar Data Network is the first segment of an SDN that Intuitive Machines is building, enabling: 

• High-capacity data transmission, like 4K video and precision PNT services to support landing site selection, resource prospecting, and autonomous mobility. 

• Autonomous operations, delivering infrastructure, logistics, and mapping capabilities to support sustained lunar exploration. 

• Scalable support for lunar cargo and infrastructure delivery, strengthening long-duration operations and expanding access to lunar surface assets. 

Dcubed’s proposal was submitted within 72 hours of the initial discussion and quickly resulted in an agreement, thanks to the company’s technical credibility, responsive team, and commitment to accelerated delivery. 

“Partnering with Intuitive Machines for such a pivotal mission is a proud moment for our team,” said Erik Pranckh, US Managing Director, Dcubed. “This project demonstrates the agility and reliability of our solar array technology today, while aligning with our longer-term vision to pioneer in-space manufactured (ISM) solar arrays that will power the space infrastructure of the future.” 

About Dcubed 

Dcubed enables the future of space missions with high-performance, flight-proven release mechanisms and deployable structures. From cutting-edge Release Actuators to scalable Deployable Solar Arrays and innovative Deployable Antennas, our technologies are designed for user friendliness, availability, and reliability — whether for smallsats in LEO or large missions to Moon, Mars and beyond.  

Headquartered in Munich, Germany, with a manufacturing presence in Denver, Colorado, Dcubed serves a global space industry with off-the-shelf and customizable hardware that accelerates mission timelines and reduces cost and risk.  

With a proven track record across multiple space missions, we are at the forefront of In-Space Manufacturing and are proud to push the boundaries of what’s possible with lightweight, compact, and efficient deployable systems. We work closely with satellite integrators, subsystem builders, space agencies, primes, and emerging players across the globe — building the enabling technologies that will power the next generation of commercial and exploration missions.

Find out more about this partnership here: Dcubed Solar Arrays Selected to Power Intuitive Machines’ First Space Data Network Satellite 

Contacts 

For investor inquiries:
thomas.sinn@dcubed-space.com 

For media inquiries: 

hamish.mackenzie@dcubed-space.com 

About Intuitive Machines 

Intuitive Machines is a diversified space technology, infrastructure, and services company focused on fundamentally disrupting lunar access economics. In 2024, Intuitive Machines successfully soft-landed the Company’s Nova-C class lunar lander, on the Moon, returning the United States to the lunar surface for the first time since 1972. In 2025, Intuitive Machines returned to the lunar south pole with a second lander. The Company’s products and services are focused through three pillars of space commercialization: Delivery Services, Data Transmission Services, and Infrastructure as a Service. 

Contacts 

For investor inquiries:
investors@intuitivemachines.com 

For media inquiries:
press@intuitivemachines.com 

Image Credit: 

Intuitive Machines conceptual 3D render of data-relay satellite. 

The agreement establishes a strategic partnership to explore future opportunities in space power and deployable technologies. By aligning their complementary expertise, Flexell Space and Dcubed aim to strengthen innovation and expand cooperation across the global space sector.

Taehun Ahn, CEO of Flexell Space, said “This collaboration demonstrates the global recognition of our solar cell technology. Flexell Space’s innovative solar cells are characterized by 90% weight reduction, 60% cost savings, and enhanced durability against radiation and extreme temperatures compared to conventional space solar cells. By combining our expertise in lightweight solar cells with Dcubed’s proven deployable solar array systems, we can deliver a new class of reliable, scalable, and sustainable power solutions for satellites.”

Antonio Pedivellano, Director of Deployables at Dcubed, added: “Collaborating with Flexell Space is an important step toward fostering new opportunities in space technology. Together, we will explore solutions that meet the evolving needs of the satellite industry worldwide.”

Beyond technology, the partnership also highlights closer ties between Europe and South Korea, reinforcing international collaboration and opening pathways for future cooperation in global markets.

Since its founding in 2019, Dcubed GmbH has expanded its focus beyond CubeSat deployable structures to include innovative solutions for larger satellites, spacecraft, and planetary landers. The original concept behind Deployables Cubed was to create deployable structures that are small for launch but large in space, standardizing them much like the CubeSat revolutionized satellite technology (-> deployables cubed). Today, Dcubed GmbH continues this legacy with scalable, cutting-edge, deployable solutions for the space industry.

Additionally, the company is excited to announce that Alexander Titz, one of the earliest members of the Dcubed team, has been appointed as the second Managing Director, joining the existing CEO and Managing Director, Dr. Thomas Sinn. With this new leadership structure, Dcubed GmbH is well-positioned to continue its upward trajectory and expand its impact on the space industry.

“The rebranding to Dcubed GmbH reflects our evolution as a company, and I am excited to share additional elements of our rebrand over the coming months,” said Dr. Thomas Sinn, CEO and Managing Director. “We’ve outgrown our original vision; this new name represents our broader focus. With Alexander Titz joining me as Managing Director, we’re strengthening our leadership team for the exciting challenges ahead.”

The updated name ensures consistent spelling and reinforces the company’s identity as it moves forward with its mission to standardize deployable structures and innovation across the space industry.

Munich, Germany, Westminster, Colorado, August 5th, 2024 – Dcubed, a German NewSpace supplier, has successfully closed its Series-A funding round to boost further growth in the global space market. Mirroring the rising global positioning of Dcubed in the NewSpace market, the financing round attracted a broad diversity of eight international investors across Europe and the U.S. Due to this strong investor’s demand, the round was oversubscribed by 26%. The fresh funding will be used to scale the current production of satellite actuators. At the same time, Dcubed will drive its leading position in the sector of in-space manufacturing, which is largely seen as one of the key enabler technologies for future space applications. Also, to propel both endeavors, the company extends its footprint in the world´s largest space market by opening a U.S. office.

Thomas Sinn, CEO of Dcubed, said:

“Despite a tight global finance environment, investors notably oversubscribed our Series A round. This funding round proves high market trust in our capabilities. Together with our global investors, we now have a solid foundation to boost future growth in the booming space market. With the fresh funding, we will quadruple the production of our current product. At the same time, we are chasing `the next big thing´ in space by taking a trailblazing role in the field of in-space manufacturing. By opening our U.S. office, we tap into the world´s most vibrant space ecosystem to further expand our global footprint and develop space innovations for the years to come.”

Ted Elvhage, General Partner at Expansion Aerospace Ventures, added:

“Space is among the most rapidly evolving markets, expected to quadruple from about $500 billion to $2 trillion in just a decade. Dcubed has all the necessary assets to jump on this steep growth trajectory: It combines high-quality German engineering with a strong global business. It combines a space-proven product in the rising satellite business with a leading position in the future market of in-space manufacturing. We are glad to become part of this success story and to support Dcubed in conquering the next orbits.”

Alois Ganter, Investment Manager at BayBG Venture Capital, outlined:

“Having funded over 100 companies in the past 20 years, Dcubed is the first NewSpace equity investment of BayBG VENTURE CAPITAL. Our decision reflects the crucial role that space technologies play in driving all sectors on Earth – from connectivity and mobility to security and sovereignty. Dcubed has built a strong position while entirely financing its past growth via customer orders. The NewSpace race has started, and, together with Dcubed and our co-investors, we are glad to take a pole position.”

Ariel Ekblaw, General Partner at Aurelia Foundry, added:

“From climate change to economic growth: NewSpace is among the key enablers for solving critical challenges on Earth. To drive this development, the U.S. certainly provides the most flourishing ecosystems and is also one of the most competitive. With its already strong U.S. business – having delivered products for a who’s who of aerospace customers – Dcubed has proven to be a rapid innovator and trusted supplier with immense opportunity to scale. We are glad to propel this journey with our expertise and partners.”

Christian Ziach, Principal at HTGF, rounded up:

“Deep tech and NewSpace start-ups have to show that they can make money while pursuing a big vision. Dcubed has done this impressively in recent years. As lead investor in the seed round, I am very pleased about the completion of the Series A and see my investment thesis confirmed.”

The funding round is spearheaded by lead investors Expansion (a new Franco-Swedish fund which is one of the largest European VC funds dedicated to New Space and New Air Mobility) and BayBG (one of the leading investors in developing Bavarian tech for over half a century). Co-investors from Europe comprise High-Tech-Gründerfonds (ranking among Europe´s largest tech funds), Dcubed’s seed lead investors that confirmed its trust in the company by bringing in fresh investment, as well as Rymdkapital (Sweden’s leading venture capital firm for soaring space companies). Further German uplift is fueled by Ventis Capital (a family-backed investor specialized in driving entrepreneurs at early-stage growth) and Decisive Point Europe (experts in scaling and M&A). The European investor portfolio is complemented by Aurelia Foundry (a leading U.S. deep tech fund with deep roots in the U.S. NewSpace ecosystem).

The latest investment will be used to scale Dcubed’s production. Besides further driving the manufacturing of satellite solar arrays in a unique origami foldable design, the plans mainly comprise quadrupling the output of actuators by the end of 2024. This technology is a critical mechanism in satellites of all sizes, used to hold components securely in place during launch and then reliably released once in space. Over the past four years, Dcubed has developed into a leading supplier of actuators for new space applications. Going forward, the company will benefit from the sharp increase in expected satellite launches – predicted to add more than 100,000 satellites to the currently 10,000 satellites in the next few years. To meet this growing demand, Dcubed will continue standardizing its products and facilitate future sales by introducing a first-of-its-kind online store for space products. This online shop will allow customers to order their products just as they do with other major online retailers.

As part of its strategic roadmap, Dcubed will invest in in-space manufacturing, a highly innovative capability will be an indispensable prerequisite to enabling a broad range of future space applications. Whether it is enabling high power communication constellations or the next generation of spacetug (taxiing satellites to their orbits) all the way to space solar power and the exploration of our solar system: to make these innovations a reality, it will not be enough to simply launch existing space technology into space the way it has always been done. Instead, it must be built and validated in space. Building in space allows for optimized design for high performance in space instead of building solutions that must withstand high stress during transportation. This way, ISM will save significant time and money to build, test, and launch complex structures on Earth. Dcubed is taking a global leadership role in ISM by performing a demonstration in 2025 by 3D-printing a high-performance satellite solar array in free space, a world’s first. This future technology is already underway as Dcubed received a €9,5 million EU contribution from the European Innovation Council of the European Commission (EC EIC) in July 2024.

Reinforcing its growth, Dcubed opened a U.S. office in Westminster, Colorado, a major NewSpace hub boasting one of the world’s highest concentrations of space companies, research institutions, and qualified workforce. Dcubed’s U.S. office is established within Advanced Space’s building. Dcubed will directly benefit from the network of this leading U.S. space company and nearby customers. Today, the U.S. accounts for more than half of Dcubed’s client base, and the U.S. entity aims to grow its team into the double digits in 2025. The development will be led by Dcubed’s new U.S. Managing Director, Andria Fortier – who will spearhead U.S. operations and drive the growth of strategic relationships with American customers and partners. She brings nearly a decade of experience in the aerospace and defense industry across disciplines ranging from marketing and strategy to management consulting.

ESA ScaleUp supporting DCUBED for world´s first demonstration of an in space manufactured Solar Array  

• World’s first in space manufactured solar array scheduled for SpaceX launch in Feb 2025, paving the way to solve growing power needs of future space applications. 

• Gianluigi Baldesi (Head of Ventures & Finance, ESA): “By having the European Space Agency support the first ever in-space 3D printed solar array via the ScaleUp INVEST programme element, we enable an exciting opportunity for a European company to demonstrate a disruptive technology.” 

• Thomas Sinn (CEO, DCUBED): “Future space applications hinge on more power provision; Thus, solar arrays are among fastest growing space sectors: +7% p.a., reaching
  US$ 20 billion by 2029). DCUBED´s ambition to spearhead new technologies in this sector is now backed by funding of ESA ScaleUp and partnership with Exotrail. Next goals: Product launches in 2025/26 and ramp-up production to one solar array per day in next 5 years.”  

Munich, March 20, 2024: DCUBED, the German NewSpace hardware manufacturer, announces the first in orbit demonstration (IOD) of its in space manufactured (ISM) solar array. The project is supported by the European Space Agency’s (ESA) ScaleUp INVEST program and scheduled for launch in February 2025 aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket. 

The rapid growth of space infrastructure calls for increased power for a growing range of applications, like data processing and transmission or in-orbit transportation and servicing. DCUBED’s in space manufactured solar blanket offers a cost-efficient lightweight solution with the highest power output for its class. 

The demonstration will see DCUBED’s ISM Solar Array consisting of an ultrathin solar blanket being rolled out in orbit, while the back structure is 3D printed onto the solar array membrane directly during roll out in space. The DCUBED ISM Solar Array system will be integrated directly into the host spacecraft, reducing mass and weight. Once manufactured, the solar array will produce more than 100W of energy, representing an important stepping stone for future space servicing operations. 

The in-orbit demonstration is fostered through ESA’s ScaleUp program, designed to expedite the commercialization of the European space industry and the global scaling-up of private ventures by offering financial funding and technical support. As part of this initiative,
ESA has been invested in DCUBED’s in orbit demonstration. With ESA supporting its first IOD, DCUBED aims to launch its initial ISM solar array products (1kW for smaller satellites or spacetugs) in 2025, followed by more powerful variants (10 kW for spacetugs or larger satellites) in 2026. The successful commercialization of these products will significantly expand the presence of European space companies in the global supply chain for the SmallSat Solar Array market. The space solar array and power market is projected to reach a value of more than $20 billion USD by 2028, with substantial growth at almost 7% compound annual growth rate (CAGR).  

“Driving Europe’s competitiveness through commercialization is a top priority for the European Space Agency. By having the European Space Agency support the first ever in-space 3D printed solar array via the ScaleUp INVEST programme element, we enable an exciting opportunity for a European company to demonstrate a disruptive technology. This never seen before in-orbit demonstration will fuel the commercial growth of the space-based solar arrays market worldwide.” 

Gianluigi Baldesi, Head of Ventures and Finance, ESA 

“Whether it’s about communications, connectivity or transportation and servicing: future space applications hinge on energy sources that must be more powerful than today´s solutions. As a result, solar arrays emerge as one of the fastest-growing space sectors: This is why DCUBED is determined to spearhead this technology with the world’s first ISM solar array. The strong backing from ESA ScaleUp INVEST serves as a testament to our capabilities. Following a successful in-orbit demonstration, our next milestone is to introduce the first ISM solar array product for small satellites in 2025, followed by a more powerful variant in 2026. Our vision is to ramp-up production to more than one ISM solar array per day within the next five years.” 

Thomas Sinn, CEO & Founder, DCUBED 

In a previous step, DCUBED – in collaboration with the University of Applied Sciences of Munich – had already received record funding from the Bavarian Space Program and the Bavarian Ministry for Economic Affairs in the amount of over $ 1 million for in space manufacturing research in December 2023. This fundamental research program will now be complemented by ESA ScaleUp for operational commercialization. 

About DCUBED 

DCUBED, a NewSpace company based in Munich, Germany, makes space missions accessible by developing durable and affordable release actuators, solar arrays and deployables. Using patented shape-memory technology and proprietary origami structures, DCUBED’s products are superior in terms of cost, mass and volume, while exhibiting increased reliability, durability and reusability. Serving a global customer base in 18 countries across 4 continents, DCUBED offers immediate product availability due to its European supply chain and is ready to also help you realize cheaper and more frequent space missions. Doing truly big things in space, DCUBED is at the forefront of In Space Manufacturing, by developing technologies to manufacture large structures directly in space. 

About ESA ScaleUp 

The ESA ScaleUp program is an essential component of the European Space Agency’s dedication to advancing space commercialization for a green and digital Europe, while also fostering the growth of private investment in the space sector. Launched as a 25 M euro pilot programme element in 2023, the ScaleUp INVEST Marketplace accelerates business-to-business transactions, enabling the up-and-coming space leaders of Europe to grow their operations and rise to the next level in new and emerging markets in a sustainable way. 

Press Contact 

Lauro Gabriel Hining 

B2P Communications Consulting 

+49 160 975 253 42 / lgdesouzahining@b2p-communications.com 

The SQRLi project is a LIDAR engineering test unit with a 35m or greater range sensor array designed to provide a 40×40 field of view and operate under poor lighting conditions for rover-based missions and autonomous exploration of extreme environments like permanently shadowed lunar craters.  The project required the procurement of a space pin puller, requiring a small form factor, operating within tight constraints of mass and space – and the key requirement was that the space pin puller needed to be resettable for testing purposes.

DCUBED emerged as the frontrunner and eventual winner of the waiver and procurement process, offering a space pin puller that exceeded NASA’s critera.  In the waiver rationale summary ( https://www.madeinamerica.gov/waivers/nonavailability/63ebeb4c60e1027dcae6264a ), the NASA team at Goddard Space Flight Center highlighted the exhaustive comparison they had done among different types of space pin pullers:  Shape Memory Alloy, Paraffin Pusher and Split Spool.  Shape Memory Alloy pin pullers were identified as the preferred type given its reliability and operational and testing advantages.  It was noted that alternatives, such as the Paraffin Pusher and Split Spool types were either prone to failure or were destructively operated, limiting their use to a single instance.

The team at Goddard Space Flight Center carefully compared specifications for shape memory alloy space pin pullers between DCUBED and EBAD, but DCUBED’s products stood out as the only one capable of satisfying the strict mass and size requirements for the SQRLi project, emphasizing our commitment to precision engineering and designing products for all sizes and mission types.  DCUBED’s offering was also the only one that included a reset function; since our space pin pullers are field resettable up to hundreds of times, adding an extra layer of versatility and functionality.

NASA’s decision to go with DCUBED over EBAD, a larger domestic competitor, reflects the agency’s recognition that they could not domestically procure the innovative and technological excellence that they needed for the SQRLi project. DCUBED’s commitment to provide off the shelf, commercially available solutions that meet or exceed expectations showcases our dedication to help our partners Do Big Things In Space.

DCUBED helps our partners get to and do big things in space with our space release actuators (space pin pullers and space release nuts), space deployables like our space selfie stick and solar arrays, as well as pioneering removing the fiction from science fiction as we pioneer in space manufacturing.

DCUBED helps missions get to space faster, easier and less expensively by providing well built, German manufacturing as off the shelf products available in weeks (not months) at an affordable price from smallsats to constellations.

To learn more or put your mission on the fast track, visit our website at https://dcubed.space