Frontiers of Space: Lunar Exploration, Orbital Manufacturing, and Nuclear Power
In recent years, the "space economy" has been attracting attention as a new frontier for growth. In fact, there are forecasts that the global space economy will reach a scale of approximately $1.8 trillion by 2035.
This is not merely an increase in the number of rocket launches, but is being realized through the chain-reaction evolution of multiple foundational technologies, such as lunar exploration, in-orbit manufacturing, refueling, and space-based power sources.
In this article, using the five startups featured this week—ranging from lunar landers to nuclear power modules—as case studies, I will explain in an easy-to-understand manner for business people, entrepreneurs, and investors why space development is important from a business and investment perspective right now.
1. Astrobotic delays launch of "Griffin" lunar lander
The Astrobotic lunar lander "Griffin", which was scheduled to carry NASA's "VIPER" lunar exploration mission, has been delayed from its original 2025 date to mid-2026. The cause is delays in the integration and testing phase, but the main structure and propulsion system installation are complete, and progress is steady.
Griffin is scheduled to launch on a SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket. The Astrolab FLIP rover it carries uses highly durable and deformable "lunar tires," and after testing at NASA's Glenn Research Center and Johnson Space Center, it is designed to withstand extreme temperature differences from -240°C to 130°C.
Astrobotic is preparing for a second attempt, aiming for a landing at the lunar south pole in 2026.
2. Skyrora to develop new material "Tanbium" in collaboration with ESA
Scottish rocket company Skyrora has launched a 3D printing project for a new alloy, "Tanbium", in collaboration with the European Space Agency (ESA).
This alloy has excellent heat resistance and lightweight properties, potentially surpassing existing aerospace metals. Tests suggest it can reduce part weight by 30%, reduce waste material by up to 95%, and lower costs by 40%.
Skyrora possesses one of Europe's largest metal 3D printers, "Skyprint 2," and the company's CEO states, "We aim to secure Europe's sovereign launch capabilities and material technology."
The first vehicle, "Skylark L," is scheduled to launch from the SaxaVord Spaceport in Scotland in the first half of 2026.
3. Starlab × Redwire: A new era for commercial space stations
Redwire Space has announced its participation in the "Starlab" commercial space station project. It will provide solar arrays and life support technology to advance the commercialization of space experiments and establish a manufacturing base.
Starlab is a private space station concept supported by NASA, with participation from Voyager Space, Airbus, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, MDA Space, and others. Launch is planned for 2029 via SpaceX's Starship.
The total volume is approximately 387 cubic meters (about one-third of the ISS), accommodating eight crew members. Palantir's AI will support data management and automation.
By adopting a flexible architecture that allows for "leasing" modules, it aims to become a new industrial hub enabling microgravity manufacturing for biotech, semiconductors, and AI materials.
4. Rocket Lab completes NASA's cryogenic fuel experiment "LOXSAT"
Rocket Lab has completed the manufacturing of a spacecraft for the "LOXSAT mission," which will demonstrate NASA's cryogenic propellant storage technology.
The project aims to enable long-term storage of liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen, with the goal of building a propellant depot in orbit.
NASA evaluates this technology as a "paradigm shift for the space economy" and has set a goal for commercial operation by 2030.
Rocket Lab has integrated capabilities ranging from launch to satellite manufacturing and operation, and is evolving from a mere launch company into an "in-orbit infrastructure company."
5. Emerging company "Mersenne Tech" appears: Toward a "space power revolution" with nuclear energy
Finally, there is the newly emerged Mersenne Tech.
The company is developing nanoscale nuclear power modules, aiming for long-term power supply on Earth, in orbit, and in deep space [Official Website].
The first unit, "Starfall," is a 40kW-class small nuclear reactor, intended for use during the long lunar night (354 hours) where solar power and batteries cannot be used, for fuel synthesis on the Martian surface, and even for mining bases in the asteroid belt.
Founder Kevin Siniki says, "We will lead humanity to the next stage of the Kardashev scale," and if SpaceX handles transportation, Mersenne aims to be the entity that handles "space energy."