Lunasa Space funding backs shared in orbit lab platform

by Robert Schreiber
Berlin, Germany (SPX) Nov 28, 2025

Lunasa Space has received 30,000 pounds in support from the UK Space Agency Space Ecosystem Commercialisation Programme to advance its Cosmic Labs orbital platform toward a first demonstration mission planned for late 2026.

The company plans to fly three payloads from UK developers on the initial Cosmic Labs mission so those teams can test and validate their hardware in orbit as a step toward commercial use.

Lunasa Space targets a long running shared satellite platform that can host several payloads at the same time instead of flying single use spacecraft. By letting multiple customers rideshare their in orbit tests on one satellite bus, the approach is intended to lower costs compared with dedicated missions and shorten development schedules for new systems.

The company points to high barriers for early stage space firms that want to prove technology on orbit, where building and launching a one off satellite can cost several million pounds and delay projects.

Amin Chabi, Founder and CEO of Lunasa Space, said: "Today, in-orbit servicing and manufacturing technologies are advancing and evolving rapidly, but the industry's ability to test and validate them hasn't kept the pace. Cosmic Labs gives companies a practical, affordable way to prove their systems in orbit and bring them to market more quickly."

"The SECP award provides more than just financial support, it serves as an endorsement of Lunasa's technology and the potential economic value it represents. It de-risks the project, helps us mature the design, and builds confidence that the UK is serious about leading in-space servicing and sustainability."

The SECP is a 1.4 million pound UK Space Agency programme that issues development grants of up to 30,000 pounds to smaller high growth space companies across the country. The scheme is led by the Midlands Aerospace Alliance and is delivered through six regional clusters, with Space South Central covering the South East of England and the Isle of Wight.

Space South Central supported Lunasa Space during the application process and aligned the Cosmic Labs work with UK space sector priorities.

Dr Louise Butt, Director of Space South Central, said: "At Space South Central, our mission is to transform pioneering concepts into real-world capability. Supporting innovators like Lunasa through initiatives such as SECP helps bridge the gap between the drawing board and commercial deployment. Rapid investment in design and testing not only de-risks emerging technologies but ensures the UK stays ahead in the race to deliver next-generation space infrastructure and in-orbit services."

With SECP backing, Lunasa plans to build up facilities in the Space South Central region, including new technical space, cleanrooms and environmental test labs, and to add engineering and operations staff.

Amin adds: "Technologies can't stay grounded for years waiting to be tested. The faster we can validate them in orbit, the faster we can grow the industry. With SECP and Space South Central's support, that future is getting much closer."

Antonia Yendell, Head of Space Ecosystem Development, said "The Space Ecosystem Commercialisation programme is designed to empower the UK Space Cluster Network to invest in innovative local space companies. By enabling high potential businesses to commercialise their technology, establish new partnerships, and seize growth opportunities, it is driving local economic prosperity and strengthening capabilities. Collaboratively we are building a national space ecosystem which is competitive on the global stage."