Deep Space Energy Receives €930,000 Seed Investment to Generate Electricity on the Moon and Power Satellite Infrastructure

[Cengiz Özemli]

### Deep Space Energy's Next-Generation Radioisotope Power Generator
Latvian-based startup Deep Space Energy is developing next-generation radioisotope power generator technology. This technology is based on the principle that radioisotopes derived from nuclear waste generate heat through natural decay, and this heat is then converted into electrical energy. The solution developed by the company requires 5 times less fuel compared to traditional thermoelectric generators (RTGs).

### Funding and Goals
In February 2026, Deep Space Energy closed a 350,000 euro pre-seed funding round led by Outlast Fund and angel investor Linas Sargautis, former founder of NanoAvionics. In addition, it secured 580,000 euros in public contracts and grants from the European Space Agency (ESA), the NATO DIANA program, and the Latvian government. This total funding, exceeding 930,000 euros, will be used to commercialize the technology and strengthen Europe's strategic space and defense industries.

### Satellite Energy and Defense Applications
The company's new generator is designed as a backup power source, especially for high-value dual-use satellites used in critical military intelligence and early warning systems in orbits such as Medium Earth Orbit (MEO), Geostationary Orbit (GEO), and Highly Elliptical Orbit (HEO). This technology reduces the dependence of satellite power systems on solar energy, thereby increasing the resilience of strategic military reconnaissance satellites.

### Lunar Economy and Space Exploration
Deep Space Energy aims to focus on the lunar economy in the long term. The generator will provide solutions to critical energy problems in lunar surface exploration projects such as NASA and ESA's Artemis, Argonaut, and lunar rover programs. Since temperatures on the Moon drop to -150°C during lunar nights, which last approximately 354 hours, solar energy is insufficient. The company's technology generates 50 watts of power using approximately 2 kg of Americium-241 fuel, providing significant fuel efficiency compared to traditional RTG systems.

### Economic and Strategic Contributions
The importance of satellite intelligence data in modern warfare has been clearly demonstrated in the conflict in Ukraine. While Europe's dependence on US defense satellites appears to be a strategic weakness, this technology supports Europe in becoming more independent and producing satellites with advanced capabilities. Furthermore, it extends the lifespan of lunar rover missions, saving hundreds of millions of euros in costs.

### Investor Perspectives
Egita Poļanska, partner at Outlast Fund, stated that space energy technologies have long been stagnant, but now, with the combination of innovative materials and commercial demand, a real breakthrough can be achieved. Linas Sargautis emphasized that the Baltic region is an emerging hub for space technology and that this investment will make significant contributions to the region's space defense capabilities.

### About Deep Space Energy
Founded in 2022, Deep Space Energy is a Latvian-based startup with a branch in the United Kingdom. The company develops generators that convert the nuclear self-decay heat of radioisotopes into electrical energy for use in space. The product is designed for deep space science missions, lunar missions, and high-value defense satellites. It is the first company in Latvia to be selected for the NATO DIANA program and is supported by financial assistance from ESA and various investment funds.