Skip to main content

OHB System

ApplicationBremen, GermanyFounded 1981· One of 313 Application companies tracked by AMPulse

Develops and integrates large-format 3D printing systems for in-space manufacturing of satellite components and spare parts using high-performance thermoplastics, enabling on-orbit production for extended mission lifetimes.

CEO / Founder
Chiara Pedersoli
Team Size
1001-5000
Stage
Active
Latest Round
Strategic Investment - $365M - August 2024
Key Investors
KKR; Public Investors

Technology & Products

Key Products

OHB Systems develops and integrates satellite systems for Earth and weather observation, navigation, telecommunications, and reconnaissance. They also contribute to human spaceflight and exploration missions. Their portfolio includes projects like ExoMars, EnMap, Galileo, MTG, SARah, and the SmallGEO series.

Technological Advantage

Proprietary knowledge in space-qualified AM systems (verified through ESA contract); 35+ years of space systems integration experience applied to AM; Defensible through ESA partnerships and space certification requirements

Differentiation

Value Proposition

Reduces satellite maintenance costs by enabling on-demand spare parts production in orbit, eliminating launch mass/volume constraints and cutting lead times from months to days for critical components.

How They Differentiate

Focus on European space agency contracts vs. commercial space focus of Made In Space; Integrated satellite systems approach vs. pure AM hardware providers like EOS or 3D Systems; ESA-backed IMPERIAL project provides institutional validation competitors lack

Market & Competition

Target Customers

Space agencies (ESA), satellite operators, aerospace manufacturers requiring in-space manufacturing capabilities

Industry Verticals

Aerospace; Defense; Space

Competitors

Airbus Defence and Space, Thales Alenia Space, Aerospacelab

Growth & Milestones

Growth Metrics

Parent company OHB SE has revenues exceeding €1 billion with approximately 3,000 employees

Major Milestones

1981: Company founded; 2024: Awarded ESA contract for IMPERIAL space 3D printer project; 2024: New management board appointed under CEO Chiara Pedersoli; Won EU Galileo satellite navigation system tender

Notable Customers

Institutional public agencies (e.g., European Space Agency - ESA), B2B and commercial clients.