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Starlab and Space Applications Services Join Forces

In a bold move set to redefine the future of space exploration, Starlab Space LLC has announced a strategic partnership with Space Applications Services at the 76th International Astronautical Congress. This collaboration marks a significant milestone for Starlab, further strengthening its international presence and enhancing its capabilities for customers worldwide.

The New Partnership

Space Applications Services, a leading innovator in space engineering, payload integration, and mission operations based in Belgium, has formally joined Starlab as both a partner and an equity owner in a joint venture. This partnership leverages SpaceApps’ deep-rooted expertise in space systems and mission operations, which includes pioneering avionics, payload development, and mission integration software. The collaboration promises unprecedented access to international research markets and communities, fostering an environment for innovation.

Marshall Smith, CEO of Starlab, expressed enthusiasm over the partnership, stating, "Adding SpaceApps as both an investor and partner proves we're rapidly moving from design to reality. With additional capital and expertise from international partners, we are not just building the most advanced commercial space station but also accelerating scientific discovery and defining the next era of space exploration."

Expanding Research Capabilities

Another exciting dimension of this collaboration is the integration of SpaceApps's Space Innovation Laboratories, which are currently being developed across Europe. These ground-based laboratories are designed to enhance microgravity research capabilities for universities and industry partners, thereby enriching the research community and cultivating a robust pipeline of scientific payloads for Starlab's orbital laboratory.

Richard Aked, CEO of SpaceApps, shared his vision for the future with Starlab: "We are proud to join Starlab as both an investor and a partner. Starlab's vision aligns with our mission to broaden access to space. By contributing our payload facilities, avionics, and mission integration expertise, we look forward to enabling breakthrough science and innovation in low-Earth orbit."

Leading the Charge in Commercial Space

As Starlab continues to advance its Commercial Low Earth Orbit (LEO) Destination program, the addition of SpaceApps positions the company among the most ambitious ventures in the sector. It is building upon a legacy of success established over two decades of operation with the International Space Station (ISS), aiming to create the most advanced AI-enabled commercial space station.

The joint venture is backed by significant commitments from partners across the United States, Europe, Japan, and Canada. Starlab is making remarkable strides, evident from its upcoming Critical Design Review scheduled for later this year.

About Starlab Space

Starlab, a U.S.-led global joint venture, brings together key players in the space industry including Voyager Technologies, Airbus, Mitsubishi Corporation, MDA Space, Palantir Technologies, and Space Applications Services. With the backing of strategic partners such as Hilton, Journey, Northrop Grumman, and The Ohio State University, Starlab is on a mission to continue human presence in low-Earth orbit while facilitating a seamless transition of microgravity science with the retirement of the ISS.

For more information, visit starlab-space.com.

About Space Applications Services

Founded in Belgium and with offices in the Netherlands and the U.S., Space Applications Services specializes in developing technologies for human spaceflight, exploration, and Earth observation. They serve various clients, including ESA, NASA, and the European Commission, delivering critical mission systems that include robotics, avionics, astronaut training, and ISS operations to support successful missions worldwide. Their multidisciplinary teams are dedicated to delivering comprehensive solutions from concept through to orbital deployment.