Two space startups merge to develop next-gen telescopes

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Two space startups, OurSky and PlaneWave Instruments, have successfully merged, creating a new company called Observable Space. As a result, this collaboration is set to redefine the landscape of space observational data and telescope manufacturing.
The merger follows a $9.5 million seed round led by Upfront Ventures. These companies have made significant contributions to the space industry, especially in improving telescope technology and making space data more accessible. By combining OurSky’s software platform with PlaneWave’s high-quality telescopes, the companies aim to make the integration of space technology more seamless. Observable Space will offer more efficient solutions to a growing market for space observation, data analysis, and communication. The new entity is poised to cater to institutions, research centers, and space-focused companies, supported by major customers such as NASA and the U.S. Space Force. With the backing of In-Q-Tel, the CIA’s nonprofit investment firm, Observable Space will continue to innovate and lead in space tech.

Introducing the Space Startups: OurSky and PlaneWave Instruments

OurSky, led by Dan Roelker, is a software platform company specializing in integrating space observational data. Their mission focuses on streamlining access to space data by improving telescope integration, making space technology more accessible. Roelker, previously SpaceX’s VP of software engineering, brings significant experience to the company. He built OurSky to address challenges in telescope operation, combining hardware and software to reduce complexity and make telescopes more user-friendly. PlaneWave Instruments, founded by Richard Hedrick, is known for manufacturing high-precision telescopes used in astronomy and space observations. PlaneWave’s telescopes have earned a reputation for their accuracy and reliability, and their customers include NASA and the U.S. Space Force. Hedrick’s expertise in telescope manufacturing makes the company one of the few U.S.-based telescope producers. He has worked relentlessly to create telescopes capable of providing high-quality data for both research and commercial use.

The Merger: A Perfect Match Between Two Space Startups

The merger between the two space startups OurSky and PlaneWave Instruments is a strategic move to address integration challenges in space observation technology. Nick Kim from Upfront Ventures led the $9.5 million seed round that supported the merger. Kim witnessed firsthand the struggles of using off-the-shelf software to operate telescopes, which often took several hours to generate data. This problem highlighted the need for an integrated, user-friendly solution. After observing the difficulties in using space data systems, Roelker realized that combining both hardware and software would solve many of the industry’s integration issues. By merging OurSky’s advanced platform with PlaneWave’s high-quality telescopes, the new company can offer a streamlined, efficient solution. The merger has the potential to eliminate frustrating delays and provide a smoother experience for users in space exploration and research.

Observable Space: The New Venture in Space Technology

Observable Space will integrate OurSky’s innovative software platform with PlaneWave’s cutting-edge telescope technology. This merger promises to simplify the use of space observation systems by offering a fully integrated approach to both hardware and software. The combined company’s telescopes will provide users with a more intuitive experience, enabling multiple telescopes to be used simultaneously. This capability allows users to mimic the power of a much larger telescope without requiring additional resources or costs. In addition to improving telescope usage, Observable Space will focus on expanding the market for space communication technology.By leveraging laser communication systems, the company will significantly enhance space communications, thereby providing effective solutions for tracking and interacting with spacecraft.
This integration benefits sectors ranging from space research to defense, where quick communication with space assets is vital.

Revenue Model and Business Expansion Opportunities

Observable Space’s revenue model will primarily revolve around offering both hardware and software solutions, which will complement each other seamlessly. The company will generate income through the sale of its telescopes, integration services, and software subscriptions. Institutions, universities, and space research organizations will be key customers for Observable Space, as they need advanced technology to study celestial bodies and monitor space objects. The company will also explore new business opportunities in space data services, including satellite communication and data analytics for industries such as defense and intelligence.

Funding and Growth Potential for Observable Space

Observable Space has already raised $11 million, with backing from investors like In-Q-Tel, the CIA’s strategic investment arm. This funding will allow the company to accelerate its product development and expand its customer base. The support from major investors highlights the strategic importance of the company’s mission, as space technology is becoming increasingly critical for both commercial and governmental applications. The merger between OurSky and PlaneWave is expected to accelerate growth in space-related technologies. As space exploration becomes more affordable and accessible, demand for advanced telescopes and space observation tools will increase. Observable Space is strategically positioned to capture a significant share of this expanding market, driven by its innovative products and strong funding support.

A Look at the Future: How Observable Space Will Revolutionize the Industry

With the merger now complete, Observable Space sets itself up to become a leader in space technology. The company focuses on solving the integration problems that plague space observation systems, attracting both researchers and commercial space organizations. As the space economy grows, the need for seamless data integration and communication will only increase, giving Observable Space a distinct advantage in the marketplace. Roelker and Hedrick, together with the leadership team, tackle the challenges of this emerging industry effectively. Their combined expertise in software and hardware development gives Observable Space a unique edge in delivering innovative, high-performance space observation technologies. Observable Space will likely play a key role in shaping the future of space exploration and communication, benefiting not only researchers but also the broader space industry.

Learning for Startups and Entrepreneurs

The merger of OurSky and PlaneWave offers valuable lessons for startups and entrepreneurs. One key takeaway is the importance of collaboration in solving complex industry challenges. By combining their strengths, both companies were able to create a product that neither could have achieved alone. Another important lesson is the significance of creating integrated solutions that reduce friction for users. In the case of Observable Space, the merger directly addresses challenges that space professionals face when using telescopes. Finally, securing investment from strategic partners is crucial for accelerating growth and ensuring long-term success. Observable Space’s strong backing will allow it to scale and expand its product offerings effectively.

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