Aetherflux, a groundbreaking space solar startup founded by Baiju Bhatt, the Robinhood co-founder, is making bold strides toward revolutionizing the energy landscape. With a recent Series A funding round that raised $50 million, Aetherflux is preparing to launch its first space solar demonstration in 2026. This marks an exciting step towards harnessing solar energy directly from space.
The vision behind Aetherflux is simple yet ambitious: build a constellation of low Earth orbit satellites that capture solar energy and transmit it to Earth using lasers. This concept isn't just a product of innovation; it's inspired by science fiction, namely Isaac Asimov’s 1941 short story "Reason," where space power becomes a reality. Baiju Bhatt is determined to turn this visionary idea into a working model.
Aetherflux’s ultimate goal is to prove that humans can receive power from space, a leap that would forever change the way we think about energy. The startup is set to prove its concept with its 2026 demo, using the $50 million in new funding to refine its technology and infrastructure.
As the startup looks to launch its first satellite, it will use Apex Space’s Aries satellite bus — a key component that will generate power and transmit it via lasers. These lasers will deliver up to a kilowatt of energy to Aetherflux’s ground stations, where photovoltaic arrays will convert the energy into usable power.
The project is not just about technology. Bhatt’s team, made up of experts from NASA, SpaceX, Lockheed Martin, and other key organizations, is focused on building a network that can eventually supply clean, renewable energy to even the most remote parts of the world. Aetherflux's future plans include developing portable ground stations, ensuring that even distant communities can benefit from space-based solar energy.
This project’s potential goes beyond just energy production. Aetherflux's raise highlights the growing interest in space solar power, particularly with backing from notable investors such as Bill Gates’s Breakthrough Energy Ventures and Andreessen Horowitz. Additionally, the Department of Defense has awarded Aetherflux funding to develop this technology for military use, further underscoring its importance for future energy strategies.
While there have been a few experimental space solar missions, Aetherflux aims to push the boundaries, creating a scalable system that could lead to a global energy transformation. If successful, space solar power could reduce reliance on terrestrial energy sources and offer a continuous, renewable power supply free from the limitations of weather or location.
Looking ahead, Aetherflux’s progress will be closely watched. Its innovative approach to space-based energy transmission could set the stage for a new era of clean, efficient, and sustainable energy sources. As we continue to grapple with climate challenges, innovations like this offer hope for a brighter, greener future.
Stay tuned for updates as Aetherflux’s mission unfolds. This is one startup that could reshape how we power our world.
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