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Europe’s satellite industry is preparing for a new generation of constellations – and with it, a new approach to spacecraft power systems. With Astroflex Power, ESA BIC Northern Germany welcomes a startup that aims to make satellite solar arrays lighter, simpler and far more cost-efficient. Founded by two experienced satellite engineers from the European Space Industry, AstroFlex Power is developing flexible solar arrays that replace today’s rigid, heavy panel systems. The goal: enable scalable, affordable and sustainable power generation for future satellite missions.

The European space manufacturing sector is welcoming a new digital innovator. TOOLTIP GmbH has joined ESA BIC Northern Germany with an AI-powered solution that simplifies one of the most complex steps in producing space hardware: planning and tooling CNC-machined components. With its software TOOLTIP AI for Space Parts, the Lübeck-based startup helps engineers quickly assess whether a component can be manufactured and which cutting tools are best suited – directly from 3D CAD models. The focus lies on demanding space materials such as titanium, aluminium alloys, CFRP and nickel-based superalloys, commonly used in satellite structures, engine mounts and payload interfaces.

The emerging natural capital market is gaining momentum as nature becomes recognized as a measurable and investable asset class. While over half of the global economy depends on nature, its value remains largely absent from financial and policy decisions – creating systemic risks and inefficiencies. Nature One, a Nature FinTech startup recently incubated at ESA BIC Northern Germany, is addressing this critical gap by transforming how companies, investors, and governments understand and value natural assets.

When it comes to space exploration, architecture is not the first discipline that comes to mind. Yet, LIQUIFER Space Systems has been pioneering the design of habitats for life beyond Earth. Since 2019 established in Bremen, Germany’s “City of Aerospace” as Co-Founder Barbara points out, has redefined how we think about living and working in orbit and beyond. Their participation in the ESA BIC Northern Germany incubation programme marks a decisive step in turning visionary design into flight-ready reality.

There is a lot going on in Bremen - together with the local start-up network Starthaus Bremen and Bremerhaven created the interactive Start-up Map. The map shows the entire startup ecosystem, including interesting companies, universities, supporters and programmes.