Karman+, a startup focused on developing autonomous spacecraft for asteroid mining, has secured $20 million in seed funding. With this capital, the company aims to advance its hardware and software development.
Karman+’s primary objective is to build spacecraft capable of reaching asteroids, extracting water from their regolith, and returning it to Earth’s orbit. This water will be used to refuel satellites and extend their lifespan.
The company believes that asteroid mining offers significant potential, including the extraction of rare metals and other materials for use in space manufacturing.
Karman+’s plans include a first launch by 2027. The team estimates that missions could cost as low as $10 million, compared to the billions of dollars typically spent on asteroid exploration missions.
The startup’s spacecraft is still under development, and the challenges of asteroid mining remain significant. However, Karman+ is optimistic about its potential to revolutionize space exploration and contribute to a sustainable space ecosystem.
Karman+ has attracted investors from Europe, including Plural and Hummingbird, who are impressed by the team’s cautious and methodical approach to this ambitious endeavor.
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