Portal Space Systems successfully launched its first free-flying spacecraft, **Starburst-1**, aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, achieving orbit in under a year. The desk-sized craft established communications, stabilized, and deployed its solar array shortly after deployment. Starburst-1 carries experimental tech from **Zenno Astronautics**, **TRL11**, and **Atomic-6**, testing radiation shielding, live video systems, and debris protection. The mission follows Portal’s March 2026 **Mini-Nova** demo and aligns with its goal of rapid orbital maneuverability for commercial and defense customers. The company, self-funding the launch, plans to expand production to 16 Starburst and 12 Supernova spacecraft annually by 2027.

Oct 2026GeekWireNews article

Firestorm Labs secures $47 million in funding to advance its mobile drone manufacturing capabilities. The startup focuses on producing drones designed for rapid deployment and scalable production. The investment highlights growing interest in drone technology for industrial and logistics applications.

Jul 2025SiliconANGLENews article

Booz Allen Ventures backs **Reality Defender**, a cybersecurity firm focused on detecting and mitigating deepfake and synthetic media threats. The investment aligns with Booz Allen’s push into AI-driven cybersecurity solutions, utilizing Reality Defender’s technology to verify digital content authenticity. The partnership aims to strengthen defenses against manipulated media in an era of rising AI-generated disinformation.

Dec 2024The Consulting ReportNews article

Starfish Space secures $29 million in funding to advance satellite servicing capabilities. The investment comes from Booz Allen Ventures, supporting the startup’s mission to extend satellite lifespans and enable in-orbit repairs. The company develops robotic technologies for on-orbit servicing, assembly, and manufacturing.

Nov 2024SpaceNewsNews article