ISPTech Raises €5.5M Seed To Improve In-Orbit Mobility

The funding round was led by Join Capital, with participation from High-Tech Gründerfonds (HTGF), Faber, First Momentum Ventures, Lightfield Equity, Final Frontier Liftoff, the German Aerospace Center (DLR), and Start-up BW Seed Fonds, among others.

As satellite constellations grow more complex, spacecraft increasingly require propulsion systems capable of precise orbit changes and collision avoidance with minimal error. Many existing solutions fall short in agility, responsiveness, and thrust needed for these demands.

Simultaneously, regulatory pressure is pushing the industry away from traditional propulsion using highly toxic propellants like hydrazine, prompting satellite manufacturers to explore safer alternatives.

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ISPTech aims to meet these needs by developing spaceflight-ready propulsion technologies while expanding commercial collaborations with satellite manufacturers and mission operators. The company’s systems also have potential applications in defence, in-orbit servicing, and refuelling.

ISPTech’s portfolio features the HyNOx and HIP_11 propulsion systems, designed as non-toxic solutions for agile in-orbit manoeuvring across a range of spacecraft classes.

The company is preparing for two customer missions, with its first small-satellite launch incorporating ISPTech propulsion planned for 2026. CubeSat units are currently undergoing acceptance testing, and the company reports early commercial traction. Development of the HIP_11 system and its orbital refuelling capabilities is also supported through ESA-backed programmes.

Over the long term, ISPTech aims to enhance spacecraft mobility, enabling more flexible satellite operations and advancing future in-orbit servicing capabilities.

Dr. Lukas Werling, CEO and co-founder of ISPTech, said that although reusable rockets have improved access to space, future growth will depend on improved in-orbit mobility. He noted that the company is focused on building propulsion systems intended to support a more capable and scalable space ecosystem.

About InSpacePropulsion Technologies

Founded in 2023, InSpacePropulsion Technologies (ISPTech) is a spin-off from the Institute of Space Propulsion at the German Aerospace Center (DLR). The company develops propulsion systems that combine low cost, high performance, and strong reliability, building on thousands of hot-fire tests conducted at DLR facilities.