New space startup Lux Aeterna wants to make satellites reusable

Lux Aeterna, a Denver-based space startup emerging from stealth mode, aims to revolutionize satellite technology by creating reusable satellites. Their first design, called Delphi, is planned for launch and landing in 2027. Unlike traditional satellites that burn up in the atmosphere or are moved to "graveyard" orbits at the end of their operational life, Delphi is designed to survive multiple re-entries using a conical heat shield inspired by proven NASA spacecraft designs. This reusability could significantly reduce costs and increase flexibility in satellite deployment, as current satellites are typically designed to remain in orbit for years without modification. The startup has attracted $4 million in pre-seed funding from investors including Space Capital, Dynamo Ventures, and Mission One Capital, and has garnered interest from the Department of Defense due to the strategic importance of low-Earth orbit. Founder and CEO Brian Taylor, who has experience with SpaceX’s Starlink, Amazon’s Kuiper program, and Loft Orbital, envisions leveraging heavy