Orbital Matter

Overview

Orbital Matter is a pioneering company focused on revolutionizing the construction and manufacturing processes in space. Founded in 2022, it employs three-dimensional printing technology in orbit, on the Moon, and Mars to produce large-scale space infrastructure. The company is based in Warsaw, Poland, with founding roots in Berlin, Germany. Orbital Matter has successfully secured over €1 million in pre-seed funding, primarily backed by Sunfish Partners along with other angel investors. The founders include Jakub Stojek, who also serves as the CEO, leveraging his extensive experience in manufacturing companies.

Recent Developments

August 2025: Orbital Matter has been recognized in the European Technology Status report, marking it as one of the leading innovators in space technology. The company achieved a NASA Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 5, highlighting its transition from research to commercial readiness.
June 2025: The Replicator mission launched its technology on the Ariane 6, aiming to demonstrate how large space structures can be built with fewer resources in orbit. This innovation mitigates the problem of convection cooling in space, using a unique 3D printing process.
March 2025: Securing further contracts with European Space Agency (ESA) and cooperating with major prime contractors like Thales Alenia Space, Orbital Matter has been significantly progressing its product development of space-based solar power plants and larger telescopes.
December 2024: The company focused on hiring highly skilled engineers specializing in space technology to further its strategic initiatives and prepare for new demonstration phases of its 3D printing technology.
October 2024: Orbital Matter achieved strategic cooperation for its R&D processes and submitted several patent applications for its unique production methodology, reducing launch weight and volume significantly by 70% and ten-fold, respectively.

Attribute	Information
Founding Date	2022
Headquarters	Warsaw, Poland
Founders	Jakub Stojek (CEO)
Revenue	Not disclosed
Profits	Not disclosed
Key Investors	Sunfish Partners, Dhyan VC, angel investors
Industry	Space Technology, In-Space Manufacturing
Number of Employees	Not disclosed

Early History

Orbital Matter was established in 2022 with a vision to transform the way space infrastructure is constructed. Initially incubated at the ESA BIC Poland, the company focused on leveraging additive manufacturing technologies for in-space applications. Its early activities revolved around developing proprietary 3D printing techniques capable of functioning in the vacuum of space. The founders, with their background in manufacturing and 3D printing, aimed to address the limitations imposed by traditional terrestrial manufacturing, such as excessive launch costs and resource consumption. Their ambition was forged into reality through successful pre-seed funding, which provided a solid foundation for further technological advancements and strategic partnerships.

Company Profile and Achievements

Orbital Matter has carved a niche in the burgeoning sector of space-based construction through its innovative 3D printing technology. Key aspects of their business model include:

Additive Manufacturing in Orbit: Orbital Matter specializes in constructing large space structures directly in orbit, thus reducing the need for heavy payloads.
Strategic Partnerships: The company has established collaborations with the European Space Agency and prime space contractors to advance space infrastructure projects.
Achievements:
- Developed a method to reduce launch payloads significantly by using extrusion-based 3D printing combined with liquid materials.
- Successfully conducted in-vacuum technology demonstrations and filed IP protection applications.
Milestones:
1. Achieved NASA TRL 5, indicating readiness for commercial applications.
2. First in-orbit demonstration aboard Ariane 6, showcasing an innovative printing method.

Current Operations and Market Position

Orbital Matter currently plays a pivotal role in the dynamic field of space technology. The company continues to focus on the growth of in-space manufacturing capabilities.

Market Share and Position: As one of the few firms in Europe actively deploying 3D printing in space, Orbital Matter is at the frontier of space construction technology.
Competitive Advantage: Their proprietary low-heat 3D printing process is designed to function in the harsh environmental conditions of space, giving them an edge over traditional manufacturers.
Strategic Initiatives: Future expansion includes targeting larger contracts with space agencies and engaging in strategic R&D collaborations to further enhance their technological offerings.

Conclusion

Orbital Matter stands as a significant innovator in the field of space technology, particularly in the niche of in-space construction. The company's dedication to advancing 3D printing for space applications not only showcases the potential to revolutionize how space infrastructure is built but also demonstrates a commitment to pushing the boundaries of current technological limitations. With its strategic partnerships and innovative approach, Orbital Matter is well-positioned to influence the future trajectory of space exploration and infrastructure development, holding a promise of significant contributions to the space industry.