The startup OKAPI:Orbits has secured €13 million in seed funding for its AI-based approach to managing space operations, in terms of Space Traffic Management (STM).

OKAPI : Orbits raises €13m funding for AI space operations platform

Specifically, it provides “end-to-end” services for space missions, from the initial mission planning phase to the end-of-life operations. According to the company, it helps predict, detect, and deal with movements in congested space, frequency interference, and environmental impacts, and such like.

This includes simulation capabilities and tools to help remain compliant with international regulations and standards. For example, ESA’s Space Debris Mitigation Requirements (SDMR) and NASA’s ODMSP (Orbital Debris Mitigation Standard Practices). And its AI-based space situational awareness platform offers risk prediction and collision avoidance advice.

Funding
The initial funding round was led by Ventech, with Matterwave Ventures, Amadeus APEX Technology Fund, and individual investors also involved.

The investment will be used to boost the company’s “technical capabilities, expand the team, and scale its international footprint” it said.

OKAPI
Kristina Nikolaus, the company’s CEO“Our goal is to create lasting value for our customers while ensuring the long-term viability of our orbital environment,” said Kristina Nikolaus, the company’s CEO, right.

“This round allows us to further solidify our leading role in the space industry. Based out of Europe and backed by worldwide best talent we are in the unique position to build resilient and independent Space Domain Awareness capabilities for commercial and institutional customers internationally.”

Space operations
For its part, the lead investor, Ventech, highlighted the growing importance of space operations management:

“As the interest in space skyrockets, satellite operators are in dire need of an extensive space asset catalogue, trustworthy collision risk predictions, predictable space mission unit economics, and finally an industry-vetted collaboration platform,” said Nicolas Barthalon, Principal at Ventech.

“In that context, Okapi brings the full package thanks to its strong IP and ties to key industry players. We are thrilled to support OKAPI:Orbits in becoming the backbone for safe and sustainable space missions.”

OKAPI : Aether platformIt has four main products. OKAPI:Soteria (pictured) for initial mission design. OKAPI:Astrolabe – developed with the ESA – for Space Traffic Management. OKAPI:Aether is for risk prediction and collision avoidance services, right. Finally, OKAPI:LEOP guides operations team in terms of real-time orbit information.