Italian startup ORiS has raised 5 million euros, or about $5.7 million, to develop laser-based power-beaming technology for satellites. The Turin-based deep-tech company said the money will help it test wireless energy transmission in space and expand its technical team.
ORiS closed a 4.5 million euro pre-seed round led by Earlybird and co-led by Pitchdrive. The startup also received a 500,000 euro grant from an Italian regional startup program, bringing total support to 5 million euros.
The company is building a system that uses lasers to send power from one spacecraft to another. The receiving satellite can capture that energy through its solar arrays without needing major hardware changes, which could help satellites work longer and more efficiently.
ORiS has already tested the idea on the ground by beaming power to drones flying about 100 meters away from the transmitter. The company now plans to take the technology into space next year, with an in-orbit demo expected in 2027 alongside DCUBED.
The funding is important because satellite missions often face limits on energy and battery life. If ORiS succeeds, laser power beaming could become a new way to support satellite operations, especially for future space networks and orbital infrastructure.
FAQs [Frequently Asked Questions]
1. What does ORiS do?
ORiS develops laser-based wireless power transmission for satellites, aiming to send energy between spacecraft without physical cables.
2. How much funding did ORiS raise?
ORiS raised 5 million euros in total, including a 4.5 million euro pre-seed round and a 500,000 euro grant.
3. What is the next step for ORiS?
The company plans space testing next year and an in-orbit power-beaming demo in 2027 with DCUBED.