Deplotic Company Profile

Background

Overview

Deplotic is an innovative startup specializing in space robotics, focusing on enhancing the sustainability and efficiency of satellite operations. The company has developed IDRA (Inflatable and Deployable Robotic Arm), a cutting-edge solution designed for in-orbit satellite maintenance and servicing. By enabling autonomous satellite self-maintenance, Deplotic aims to extend the operational lifespan of space assets, thereby reducing costs and mitigating environmental impact.

Mission and Vision

Deplotic's mission is to revolutionize space operations by providing advanced robotic solutions that facilitate in-orbit servicing, maintenance, and logistics. The company's vision is to make space operations more sustainable, efficient, and accessible through the integration of innovative technologies.

Primary Area of Focus

The primary focus of Deplotic is the development and deployment of inflatable and deployable robotic arms for in-orbit satellite servicing. This technology addresses the growing need for sustainable and cost-effective solutions in the space industry, particularly concerning satellite maintenance and repair.

Industry Significance

Deplotic operates within the rapidly evolving On-Orbit Servicing (OOS) market, a strategic sector aimed at improving the sustainability of space systems. The company's innovative approach contributes to the growing demand for satellite services and addresses challenges related to the maintenance and longevity of space assets.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

Satellite Self-Maintenance: Developing technologies that enable satellites to perform maintenance operations autonomously in orbit, thereby extending their operational lifespans.

Sustainability Enhancement: Reducing the environmental impact of space operations by minimizing the need for external servicing missions and decreasing space debris.

Cost Efficiency: Providing cost-effective solutions for satellite maintenance, reducing the financial burden on satellite operators.

Specific Areas of Specialization

In-Orbit Servicing: Focusing on technologies that allow for the inspection, maintenance, and repair of satellites while they are in orbit.

Robotic Manipulation: Developing advanced robotic arms capable of performing complex tasks in the challenging environment of space.

Key Technologies Utilized

Inflatable Structures: Utilizing inflatable links that compress during launch to save space and deploy once in orbit to provide a large workspace.

Electric Actuation: Employing electric-actuated rigid joints for precise and reliable robotic manipulation.

Advanced Materials: Incorporating materials like Kevlar and Vectran, known for their resistance to extreme temperatures and excellent mechanical performance.

Primary Markets or Conditions Targeted

Satellite Operators: Providing solutions for satellite companies seeking to extend the operational life of their assets.

Space Agencies: Offering technologies that support sustainable and efficient space missions.

On-Orbit Servicing Providers: Collaborating with entities involved in in-orbit servicing to enhance mission capabilities.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

Deplotic has secured initial funding to support its research and development efforts. In 2024, the company raised €230,000 and is currently in the process of raising an additional €1 million to fund operations over the next 18 months, with plans to launch in 2027.

Total Funds Raised

To date, Deplotic has raised a total of €460,000.

Notable Investors

The company has received support from various investors, including:

ESA BIC Turin: An incubator supporting space-related startups.

NODES Ecosystem: A program funded by the Italian Ministry of University and Research under the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR).

Compagnia di San Paolo: A prominent Italian banking foundation.

Intended Utilization of Capital

The raised funds are intended to:

Advance R&D: Further develop and refine the IDRA robotic arm technology.

Prototype Testing: Conduct extensive testing to validate the performance and reliability of the robotic arm in space conditions.

Market Expansion: Expand operations and establish partnerships with satellite operators and space agencies.

Pipeline Development

Key Pipeline Candidates

IDRA (Inflatable and Deployable Robotic Arm): The primary product under development, designed for in-orbit satellite maintenance and servicing.

Stages of Development

Research and Development: Ongoing efforts to refine the design and functionality of the IDRA system.

Prototype Testing: Plans to conduct thermal-vacuum tests on the latest prototype to assess performance in space-like conditions.

Target Conditions

Medium-to-Large Satellites: Focusing on servicing satellites of medium to large sizes to enhance their operational lifespans.

Anticipated Milestones

Prototype Testing Completion: Expected to complete testing phases in the near future.

Operational Deployment: Aiming for deployment and operational use in 2027.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

Inflatable Robotic Arm: A unique design that allows the robotic arm to be compact during launch and deploy to a large operational size in orbit.

Modular Structure: Enables easy integration and scalability for various mission requirements.

Significant Scientific Methods

Advanced Materials Engineering: Utilizing materials like Kevlar and Vectran to ensure durability and performance in extreme space environments.

Electric Actuation Systems: Employing electric actuators for precise and reliable robotic movements.

AI-Driven Capabilities

Autonomous Operations: Integrating artificial intelligence algorithms to enable the robotic arm to perform maintenance tasks autonomously, reducing the need for human intervention.

Leadership Team

Executive Profiles

Pierpaolo Palmieri – Chief Executive Officer (CEO): Post-Doc Researcher at Politecnico di Torino, Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering.

Mario Troise – Chief Operating Officer (COO): Post-Doc Researcher at Politecnico di Torino, Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering.

Laura Salamina – Head of Software: Post-Doc Researcher at Politecnico di Torino, Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering.

Matteo Gaidano – Head of Hardware: Post-Doc Researcher at Politecnico di Torino, Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering.

Matteo Melchiorre – Head of R&D: Post-Doc Researcher at Politecnico di Torino, Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering.

Stefano Mauro – Chief Scientific Officer (CSO): Full Professor at Politecnico di Torino, Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, with expertise in robotics and mechatronics.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The On-Orbit Servicing (OOS) market is experiencing rapid growth, driven by the increasing need for sustainable and cost-effective satellite maintenance solutions. This sector aims to extend the operational lifespans of satellites, reduce space debris, and enhance the overall efficiency of space operations.

Competitor Analysis

Orbotic Systems: Develops deorbit drag devices (D3) to ensure spacecraft compliance with end-of-life deorbiting requirements.

Invicsa Airtech: Focuses on AI-driven solutions for drones and connectivity, offering advanced technologies for unmanned aerial vehicles.

Space 11 Srl: Enables the creation of digital twins for companies, providing innovative solutions for digital modeling and simulation.

Intelexa Space Robotic Technologies: Specializes in deep-tech robots designed for operations in gravity and microgravity environments.

DRB Srl: Offers UAV inspection and navigation technologies, enhancing the capabilities of unmanned aerial systems.

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