Astrix Astronautics

Astrix Astronautics, founded in 2023 and based in Auckland, New Zealand, is a satellite-manufacturing company specializing in inflatable deployable components for spacecraft. The company develops platforms utilizing inflatable, rigidizing deployment technology to significantly increase deployable surface area – up to 20x more than traditional methods – while simultaneously reducing mass by a factor of four. This technology is applicable to solar arrays, high-gain antennas, and drag sails, offering a solution to power limitations and deployment challenges in space.

Astrix’s core innovation lies in its ability to achieve high packing density through inflation, followed by a rigidization process ensuring long-term structural integrity. This allows for the creation of powerful and affordable solar arrays, utilizing either silicon or triple-junction solar cells, with a strong and reliable supply chain. Their ‘Copia’ product line offers up to 300W/kg solar arrays and is configurable, including a single-axis deployment option for enhanced rigidity.

Notably, Astrix has received the Ārohia Trailblazer Grant from Callaghan Innovation, recognizing its unique technology. The company also presented at the CubeSatPlus conference, demonstrating its engagement within the small satellite community.

Astrix Astronautics positions itself as a provider of high-performance, low-cost, and scalable deployable solutions, addressing a key bottleneck in spacecraft power and functionality. Their technology offers a compelling value proposition for a range of missions requiring increased surface area within constrained volume and mass budgets.