How start-ups are boosting Germany’s innovative capacity

Germany is one of the world’s leading research nations. In many cases, the greatest challenge lies in translating basic research into marketable products. We present three promising technology start-ups. 

The Exploration Company: reusable space capsules 

Established in 2021, Munich-based The Exploration Company (TEC) is developing Nyx, a reusable space capsule designed to initially transport cargo and later also passengers into the Earth’s orbit. The company’s aim is to help boost the innovative capacity of European space technology. Currently, it costs around 500 million euros per year to transport astronauts to the International Space Station (ISS). “Either this money will go to SpaceX in America, or it will remain in Europe,” says TEC founder Hélène Huby, a former manager with Airbus. The European Space Agency (ESA) has already commissioned the company to further develop the capsule. From 2028, Nyx is to be used to fly cargo to the ISS. 

Reflex Aerospace: secure satellites 

Reflex Aerospace, a firm that was set up in Berlin and Munich in 2021, promises to develop custom mid-sized satellites (weighing 250 to 500 kilograms) within just nine to twelve months. Normally this takes up to four years. This will be possible thanks to the use of artificial intelligence and 3D printing, among other things. The satellites will be suitable not only for civilian applications but also for military and security-relevant deployment. They will be equipped for this purpose with embedded security mechanisms. To this end, the company is working on developing a bug-proof laser-assisted communication technology.  

Marvel Fusion: laser-based nuclear fusion 

Marvel Fusion is a German start-up based in Munich that has specialised in developing laser-based fusion energy. A so-called deep tech company, it works closely together with top international researchers and universities such as Colorado State University, LMU Munich, Stanford and MIT. What the process involves: short-pulse high-intensity lasers fuse hydrogen isotopes with boron, briefly bringing about temperatures of roughly 140 million degrees. Fusion energy, which is generated when two atomic nuclei are fused, is an energy source with high energy density that does not emit any carbon dioxide. In cooperation with Colorado State University, Marvel Fusion plans to build a world-leading test facility by 2027.