Top 10 Small Satellite Start Ups

The small satellite (smallsat) industry is rapidly evolving, with several start-ups making significant strides in various niches such as satellite constellations, in-space propulsion, micro-launch vehicles, and satellite communications. As these start-ups continue to innovate and rise, several key players are emerging as leaders in the field.

Top 10 Small Satellite Start-ups Pushing Innovation in 2025

1. EnduroSat

EnduroSat, based in Bulgaria, specializes in CubeSat platforms and modular solutions for satellite constellations. Its product line includes CubeSat frames, solar panels, communication modules, onboard processing systems, and geospatial solutions. These customizable platforms allow businesses from diverse sectors to design and deploy tailored small satellites, enhancing the capabilities of satellite swarms and inter-satellite communications. EnduroSat’s work is crucial for improving cost-efficiency in satellite deployments, especially for industries seeking high-frequency, low-cost space missions?.

2. Kepler Communications

Kepler Communications, a Canada-based start-up, is revolutionizing satellite communication with its Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) nanosatellite constellation. By utilizing Software-Defined Radios (SDR), Kepler’s satellites offer highly adaptable communication systems capable of continuous software updates. Its focus is on providing global IoT connectivity, a service increasingly essential as more devices become interconnected worldwide. Kepler’s innovative approach to satellite communications positions it as a key player in both telecommunications and IoT applications?.

3. Analytical Space

Based in the U.S., Analytical Space is tackling one of the key limitations in satellite communications, i.e., data throughput. Through its FastPixel relay network, the company is enabling high data transfer rates by using a combination of CubeSat hybrid radio frequency-laser technology. This satellite communication subsystem significantly boosts the data transmission capabilities of satellites, making it particularly beneficial for weather forecasting, hyperspectral imaging, and remote sensing applications. Analytical Space’s contributions to improving satellite communication systems will be crucial as demand for real-time data increases?.

4. Orbex

Orbex is a U.K.-based start-up focused on developing a reusable, low-cost micro-launch vehicle. The company’s Orbex Prime rocket is designed for small satellite launches, featuring cutting-edge technology such as 3D-printed rocket engines and environmentally friendly fuel, bio-propane. Orbex’s unique approach to satellite launches emphasizes sustainability and cost-efficiency, providing smallsat start-ups with flexible and affordable access to orbit. With the increasing need for dedicated smallsat launches, Orbex’s innovations position it as an important player in the market?.

5. Aurora Propulsion Technologies

Aurora Propulsion Technologies is at the forefront of developing unique in-space propulsion systems. These systems are essential for small satellites to perform tasks like orbital corrections, collision avoidance, and long-term mission success. Aurora’s propulsion technology, designed for high energy efficiency and precision, is particularly important as the space industry moves toward more complex, long-duration missions. Its work is instrumental in enhancing the lifespan and performance of small satellites?.

6. Space Forge

Space Forge, a U.K.-based start-up, is pioneering a new era of in-space manufacturing. By utilizing small satellites, the company intends to conduct industrial manufacturing in space, where microgravity conditions allow for unique product creation. Space Forge’s mission is to launch small manufacturing satellites that can produce materials, such as new pharmaceuticals or metals, which would be impossible to create on Earth. With its focus on space-based industrial processes, Space Forge is driving innovation in the commercial space sector?.

7. Varda Space Industries

Varda Space Industries is aiming to revolutionize the space economy by manufacturing high-value products in orbit. Like Space Forge, Varda focuses on microgravity-based manufacturing, particularly in the fields of materials science, pharmaceuticals, and biotechnology. The company’s satellite transponders will enable in-space production of items that could have significant advantages over those created in terrestrial environments. As commercial space operations continue to rise, Varda’s unique approach to space-based manufacturing is set to reshape industries?.

8. ExPace

ExPace is a small satellite start-up specializing in the development of high-throughput, low-latency satellite systems for communications. The company is focused on providing efficient and reliable connectivity solutions to underserved regions, including remote or rural areas where terrestrial infrastructure is lacking. By leveraging the rising smallsat ecosystem, ExPace aims to deliver affordable, scalable communication services across global markets?.

9. Orbital Sidekick

Orbital Sidekick is a leader in using small satellites for Earth observation, particularly in the field of environmental monitoring. The company’s novel remote sensing technology allows it to provide real-time insights into global phenomena like climate change, deforestation, and industrial pollution. Orbital Sidekick’s constellation of small satellites is designed to deliver high-resolution imaging and data collection services that are crucial for industries such as agriculture, energy, and government?.

10. LeoLabs

LeoLabs focuses on satellite tracking and collision avoidance. With a network of ground-based radars and small satellites in orbit, it helps mitigate the rising problem of space debris, ensuring the safe operation of small satellite constellations. Its services are critical as the number of satellites in space continues to increase, helping to avoid collisions and extend the lifespan of satellites?.

Start-ups Strive to Make Commercial Use of Space in the Next Ten Years

As small satellite technology continues to evolve, several start-ups are at the forefront of driving innovation across multiple sectors, from satellite communication and Earth observation to space-based manufacturing. Developments in propulsion systems, satellite constellations, and in-space operations are predicted in the next ten years.

Such innovations are not only shaping the future of space technology but also opening new opportunities in industries such as telecommunications, environmental monitoring, and manufacturing. As more start-ups enter the market, the space sector will become increasingly accessible and sustainable, marking a significant shift in how space is used for commercial and scientific purposes.