David Needell, PhD

As the deployment of consumer electronic devices, industrial sensors, and internet of things (IoT) electronics continues to grow, so too does the need for these devices to be powered wirelessly.  The majority of such products (e.g., handheld remote controls for televisions) rely on AA or AAA disposable batteries or rechargeable lithium-ion batteries for their power.  Developed by some of the most prominent researchers of green chemistry and alternative solar power technology, Ambient Photonics has developed a solar photovoltaic cell that outperforms the current state of the art by 300%, enabling sensors, IoTs, computer accessories, electronic shelf labels, and even e-readers to operate entirely battery-free.

Learn more at ambientphotonics.com.

Launch costs and availability are two of the biggest hurdles for small-satellite customers who are developing, testing and deploying New Space technologies. Gilmour Space is developing new launch vehicles powered by lower-cost hybrid propulsion technologies. Their Eris orbital rocket will offer more affordable, reliable and dedicated launches into Low Earth Orbits (LEO) from 2023.

Learn more at gspacetech.com.

Hedron is building a network of data relay satellites that will help solve the connectivity problems faced by remote sensing constellations. Earth Observation (EO) satellites spend 70% of their orbits in connectivity blackout zones, forced to hold their critical data onboard until the next downlink opportunity. With leading multi-aperture optical technology, Hedron is building the infrastructure that makes high bandwidth, low latency connectivity to space a reality.

Learn more at hedron.space.

Most launch vehicles have been designed to carry relatively heavy payloads to Low Earth Orbit (LEO) but do not present viable, low-cost options for transporting crew and/or lighter cargo. Radian Aerospace is developing the holy grail of spaceflight: the world’s first fully reusable horizontal takeoff and landing, single-stage to orbit spaceplane. Radian’s system delivers people and light cargo to LEO and terrestrial destinations with aircraft-like operations. It will make spaceflight affordable and routine, expanding access to commercial space and unlocking the next generation of missions in scientific research and in-space manufacturing.

Learn more at radianaerospace.com.