Solstar Space Company
Overview
Solstar Space Company, founded in March 2017, is a pioneering entity in the space communications industry, providing internet-based communication solutions specifically designed for the space environment. Headquartered in Santa Fe, New Mexico, Solstar was established by M. Brian Barnett, alongside co-founders Michael Potter and Mark Matossian. The company has raised approximately $1.48 million, focusing on offering internet connectivity to astronauts and spacecraft operators for seamless mission operations.
Recent Developments
Over the last few years, Solstar Space Company has made significant strides in enhancing space-based communications technology:
- November 2024: Solstar announced preparations for the inaugural spaceflight test of their narrowband satellite data-relay transceiver, highlighting advancements in the Deke Space Communicator technology which is designed for creating persistent two-way satellite internet links.
- October 2024: AFWERX awarded Solstar a Phase II SBIR contract aimed at developing radiation-hardened Wi-Fi access points and network cards for satellite communications, underscoring the company's push towards in-space servicing and advanced operational capabilities.
- May 2024: Solstar secured a $1.25 million grant from the United States Space Force to continue developing their Continuous Spacecraft System Communications Wideband unit known as the Slayton Space Communicator, which facilitates high-speed data links between spacecraft and ground operations.
- April 2024: The company was awarded a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) contract for further developing space telecommunications infrastructure, addressing significant Defense and aerospace industry needs.
- July 2022: Northrop Grumman contracted Solstar to integrate their wireless access points into the HALO module of NASA's Lunar Gateway Project, a monumental step in providing reliable crew communications across NASA's lunar initiatives.
Company Information
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Date | March 2017 |
| Headquarters | Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA |
| Founders | M. Brian Barnett, Michael Potter, Mark Matossian |
| Revenue | Not publicly disclosed |
| Profits | Not publicly disclosed |
| Key Investors | AFWERX, United States Space Force, WeFunder |
| Industry | Aerospace, Telecommunications |
| Number of Employees | Approximately 12 |
Early History
Solstar Space Company was founded in 2017 by veterans from the aerospace industry with the ambition of transforming space communication technology. M. Brian Barnett, who had a longstanding career at NASA and space-related enterprises, began with an innovative communication system that sent the first commercial text message from Earth to space in 2013. The company quickly partnered with NASA under a Space Act Agreement to test Wi-Fi capabilities aboard spacecraft, demonstrating their Schmitt Space Communicator aboard Blue Origin rockets in 2018.
Company Profile and Achievements
Solstar Space Company's core business revolves around developing robust communication systems aimed at providing WiFi services and data links in space. Key achievements include:
- Product Launches: Successfully tested the Schmitt Space Communicator, marking the first commercial Wi-Fi hotspot in space on Blue Origin’s New Shepard.
- Collaborations: Partnered with NASA to further space-based communication systems and integrate state-of-the-art WiFi technologies for space missions.
- Funding Milestones: Secured over $1.4 million through a combination of grants and strategic funding rounds, strengthening its research and development initiatives.
- Technological Developments: Created the Deke Space Communicator and Slayton Space Communicator, advancing satellite communications with both narrowband and wideband data capabilities.
- Exhibitions and Recognition: Solstar's Schmitt Space Communicator is part of the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum's collection, showcasing its impact and technological significance.
Current Operations and Market Position
Solstar Space currently operates at the forefront of space communications, primarily targeting LEO, sub-orbital, cis-lunar, and lunar operations with their space-customized WiFi solutions. Their market share as an ISP for space is growing, backed by continuous contracts and funding from government and defense entities. The company leverages existing satellite constellations, reducing the need for launching proprietary hardware, thereby positioning itself as a cost-effective option for persistent space communication services.
Conclusion
Solstar Space Company stands out in the aerospace communications sector by being one of the few companies focused on developing reliable internet connectivity solutions for space. As interest in space tourism and exploration grows, Solstar’s pioneering technology makes it a crucial player in facilitating seamless communications between Earth and space. With successful funding, strategic contracts, and continuous innovation, Solstar is well-positioned to lead future developments in space-based telecommunications, potentially transforming how data is relayed in space.