Orbital Paradigm of Madrid Seeks Cost-Effective Solution for Orbital Reentry
Francesco Cacciatore, a self-identified skeptic with two decades of experience in the European aerospace industry, has embarked on an ambitious venture by founding a space company. After experiencing a personal crisis, he decided to pursue his dream of building something impactful. Alongside co-founder Víctor Gómez García, Cacciatore established Orbital Paradigm, a Madrid-based startup focused on developing a reentry capsule aimed at tapping into new markets for materials created in zero gravity.
Innovative Approach to Aerospace Challenges
Orbital Paradigm is tackling one of the most complex issues in aerospace: reentry. The startup has made significant strides in a short period, creating a test capsule named KID, which serves as a precursor to their future reusable capsule, Kestrel. Weighing approximately 25 kilograms and measuring around 16 inches across, KID is designed without propulsion, marking the company’s first venture into putting hardware into orbit. This innovative approach reflects the startup’s commitment to addressing the needs of its customers, which include notable entities like French space robotics firm Alatyr and Germany’s Leibniz University Hannover.
The decision to focus on reentry capsules stemmed from feedback received during initial discussions with potential clients. While the co-founders initially envisioned a focus on in-space robotics, they learned that customers were more interested in the capability to reach orbit, remain there briefly, and return multiple times. This insight has shaped Orbital Paradigm’s mission, as many institutions and companies are looking for frequent flight opportunities, particularly in the biotech sector, where microgravity can facilitate the development of new materials and therapies.
Strategic Market Positioning
The market for orbital return services is becoming increasingly competitive, with several companies vying for a share. Notably, Varda Space Industries achieved a significant milestone by completing a commercial reentry in 2024, while Europe’s The Exploration Company successfully executed a controlled reentry with its test vehicle this summer. In contrast, American startups like Varda and Inversion Space have benefited from substantial government support, including grants and contracts that do not require relinquishing equity.
Cacciatore acknowledges the challenges faced by Orbital Paradigm, particularly the lack of similar funding opportunities in Europe. This situation has compelled the company to adopt a customer-centric approach from the outset, emphasizing the need to build products that meet market demands. As Cacciatore puts it, the team must be “a bit more athletic” in navigating the competitive landscape without the financial backing that their American counterparts enjoy.
Upcoming Missions and Future Plans
Orbital Paradigm is gearing up for its inaugural mission, set to launch in approximately three months with an undisclosed launch provider. The KID capsule will carry three customer payloads, with the primary objective being to gather data from orbit and survive the intense conditions of hypersonic reentry. Unlike traditional missions, KID will not be recovered; instead, it will transmit data before impacting in a designated area.
Looking ahead, the company plans to conduct a second mission in 2026 featuring a scaled-down version of the Kestrel capsule, which will include a propulsion system and parachute for recovery. This mission will take place over Portugal’s Azores, where a spaceport is under development. While the second mission will also forego an orbital phase, it will allow for the recovery of the capsule and its payloads, marking a significant step forward for Orbital Paradigm.
Cacciatore remains optimistic about the future but understands the importance of tangible results. He emphasizes that until the team successfully completes a flight, their accomplishments remain theoretical. “Words are nice, but flying is the ultimate test,” he states, highlighting the critical nature of their upcoming missions.
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