The Vision Behind Orbital Paradigm
Orbital Paradigm is a Madrid-based aerospace startup focused on tackling one of the most complex challenges in space: orbital reentry. Founded by industry veteran Francesco Cacciatore and co-founder Víctor Gómez García, the company was born out of a desire to create a cost-effective path for spacecraft returning to Earth. Their mission is to design lightweight, reusable capsules that make reentry more accessible for research institutions, biotech firms, and companies eager to test products in microgravity environments.
Image Credits:Orbital Paradigm
Developing The First Orbital Capsule
In less than two years, Orbital Paradigm built its first test capsule, known as KID. Compact and minimal in design, it weighs around 25 kilograms and measures just 16 inches across. Though unpowered, KID represents a crucial step toward a larger reusable capsule called Kestrel. This prototype will allow the startup to test key technologies and validate performance before scaling into more advanced missions. For a small team operating on less than €1 million, this milestone highlights their innovative and resourceful approach.
Why Reentry Matters For Innovation
Reentry capabilities are increasingly important in today’s space economy. Many industries, particularly biotech, rely on repeat missions to explore new therapies and materials that can only be developed in microgravity. Customers often need multiple flights per year, and Orbital Paradigm’s model answers that demand. By offering reusable and cost-effective solutions, the company is opening the door to a wider range of research opportunities, making space more accessible than ever.
Orbital Paradigm’s Market Potential
With €1.5 million in early funding and customers ranging from universities to private firms, Orbital Paradigm is positioning itself as a key player in the emerging space reentry market. The ability to go to orbit, stay for research, and return safely has long been limited to large-scale missions. By offering a more affordable path, Orbital Paradigm is bridging that gap and proving that small, agile teams can reshape the future of space technology.
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