Varda
Varda Space Industries is a groundbreaking brand that is revolutionizing the production process by defying gravity’s constraints. They have created an Orbital Manufacturing Platform that operates in microgravity, allowing them to manufacture game-changing products in space. But what sets Varda apart is their ability to bring these products back safely to Earth using their economical re-entry capsules, paving the way for the study and advancement of hypersonic systems. With decades of research backing their approach and recent advances that have made orbital access affordable, Varda’s mission is to expand the economic bounds of humankind. Their goal is to take advantage of the unique environment of space to realize exceptional benefits on Earth. Varda’s inaugural spacecraft consists of three main components: a satellite bus, a payload module, and a reentry capsule. The process begins with the launch of Varda’s production facilities into orbit aboard commercial launch vehicles. Once in orbit, the production facility starts manufacturing operations. The produced materials are then securely returned to Earth in Varda’s reentry vehicle, which can reach hypersonic speeds of over Mach 25 or 19,000 mph. The inspiring story of Varda Space Industries began in 2020 when co-founders Will Bruey and Delian Asparouhov envisioned a world where space could be leveraged not only for storytelling and awe but also for economic benefits. Headquartered in El Segundo, California, Varda has garnered significant venture funding from investors such as Khosla Ventures, Lux Capital, Founders Fund, Caffeinated Capital, General Catalyst, and Also Capital. Accelerating innovation in space, Varda’s microgravity manufacturing platform has a wide range of real-life, on-Earth applications. These include pharmaceuticals, hypersonic testing, and fiber optics. By manufacturing products in space, Varda is dedicated to improving life on Earth and pushing the boundaries of human exploration and progress.