German space technology startup ISPTech has secured €5.5 million in seed funding to accelerate the deployment of its non-toxic propulsion systems for operational satellite missions.
The round was led by Join Capital, with participation from High-Tech Gründerfonds, Faber, First Momentum Ventures, Lightfield Equity, Final Frontier Liftoff, the German Aerospace Center, and Start-up BW Seed Fonds, among others.
Meeting The Demand For Agile Satellite Mobility
As satellite constellations expand and orbital traffic increases, spacecraft require propulsion systems capable of precise manoeuvres, rapid orbit adjustments, and reliable collision avoidance.
Many existing propulsion technologies struggle to provide the responsiveness and thrust needed for increasingly dynamic orbital environments. At the same time, the industry faces growing regulatory pressure to replace highly toxic propellants such as hydrazine with safer alternatives.
ISPTech is developing non-toxic propulsion solutions designed to deliver high agility while meeting evolving environmental and safety standards.
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HyNOx And HIP_11 Systems
The company’s portfolio includes the HyNOx and HIP_11 propulsion systems, engineered for fast and precise in-orbit manoeuvring across various spacecraft classes.
ISPTech is preparing for two upcoming customer missions, with its first small satellite launch incorporating its propulsion technology scheduled for 2026. CubeSat propulsion units are currently undergoing acceptance testing.
The development of the HIP_11 system, including orbital refuelling capabilities, is supported through European Space Agency-backed programs.
Beyond traditional satellite mobility, the company sees potential applications in defence, in-orbit servicing, and refuelling missions.
Building The Next Layer Of Space Infrastructure
While reusable rockets have reduced launch costs, long-term growth in the space sector increasingly depends on improving spacecraft mobility once in orbit.
ISPTech is positioning itself to enable more flexible satellite operations and lay the groundwork for advanced servicing and refuelling ecosystems in space.
About InSpacePropulsion Technologies
Founded in 2023, InSpacePropulsion Technologies is a spin-off from the Institute of Space Propulsion at the German Aerospace Center. The company develops high-performance, reliable propulsion systems based on extensive hot-fire testing conducted at DLR facilities, with a focus on cost efficiency and operational scalability.
