Stellar Alpina secures €160K to develop next-generation in-space propulsion technology

Zurich-based space technology startup Stellar Alpina has secured €160,000 (CHF 150,000) from Venture Kick to accelerate the development of its compact rocket engine technology for in-space propulsion.

Founded by Rick Röthlisberger, Simi Y. Wespi, Victor Elliesen and Patrick Egli, Stellar Alpina was spun out of ARIS (Academic Spaceflight Initiative Switzerland), where the team worked on advanced propulsion technologies in 2024.

The startup is developing rotating detonation rocket engines (RDREs) that aim to deliver smaller, lighter and more efficient propulsion systems for spacecraft after launch. As space activity increases, satellites and other spacecraft need more efficient ways to change orbits, reposition themselves and travel beyond Earth orbit. Traditional rocket engines can add considerable weight and complexity, limiting the performance of in-space vehicles.

Stellar Alpina’s technology relies on continuously rotating supersonic combustion waves to generate thrust. According to the company, this design can improve propulsion efficiency while reducing engine size and complexity. The technology could be used for orbital transfers, satellite repositioning and inspection missions, as well as future in-space infrastructure and deep-space applications.

The Venture Kick funding will help Stellar Alpina expand its testing infrastructure, carry out additional hot-fire tests and further develop its first flight-ready engine.