Altius Space Machines
Space robotics and satellite servicing company; for AM, developed NASA-funded ISP3 system to produce plastic filament for 3D printing in space using in-situ resources like methane and oxygen.
- CEO / Founder
- Patrick Loner
- Team Size
- 11-50
- Stage
- Acquired
- Total Funding
- $150K
- Latest Round
- Acquired
Technology & Products
Key Products
ISP3 (In-Situ Printing Plastic Production System); DogTags grapple fixtures; ESCHER satellite servicing system; Bulldog Servicer
Technological Advantage
The ISP3 system converts gaseous methane/oxygen into plastic filament for 3D printers, potentially enabling ISRU-based AM. The advantage is niche and tied to NASA-funded R&D; no patents verified. Replicable by larger aerospace players with ISRU programs.
Differentiation
Value Proposition
Enables on-demand production of 3D printing filament in space, reducing launch mass and supply chain dependence by converting local resources (methane/oxygen) into plastic feedstock.
How They Differentiate
Tethers Unlimited's Refabricator recycles waste plastic into filament; Altius's ISP3 synthesizes filament from methane/oxygen, enabling production without waste feedstock. Redwire's AMF prints without in-situ material production.
Market & Competition
Target Customers
NASA, satellite operators, defense agencies, space infrastructure companies
Industry Verticals
Aerospace/Defense; Space
Competitors
Tethers Unlimited (Refabricator); Redwire (formerly Made In Space)
Growth & Milestones
Growth Metrics
Launched 100th DogTag grapple fixture aboard OneWeb satellites; awarded multiple NASA SBIR/STTR contracts
Major Milestones
2011: Founded by Jonathan Goff; 2019: Voyager Space Holdings announces intent to acquire Altius; 2021: First orbital launch of DogTags aboard OneWeb satellites; 2021: Patrick Loner named CEO; 2021: 100th DogTag launched; 2024: Voyager Technologies redeems remaining interest in Altius
Notable Customers
NASA
Funding rounds
- Seed$150K2011Source: Tracxn