Stellar Alpina
Switzerland · Space tech · Hardware
Stellar Alpina is developing rotating-detonation rocket engines and in-space propulsion systems for satellite mobility and future orbital logistics. Its engine uses a continuously propagating detonation wave to generate thrust; after completing an early hot-fire test in Switzerland, the company is developing the technology toward flight-capable propulsion hardware.
How it works
A rotating detonation rocket engine uses a detonation wave moving around an annular combustor to generate thrust. The architecture is intended to deliver higher performance with fewer mechanical components and a smaller system volume than conventional engine designs, which can matter when spacecraft have strict limits on mass and space.
Stellar Alpina’s roadmap connects engine development to modular in-space vehicles and, longer term, lunar delivery systems. Its current technical milestone is a successful hot-fire test of engine hardware; that is an early propulsion proof point, not an operational flight system.
Customers and maturity
Potential users include satellite operators and spacecraft developers seeking in-space mobility for orbital logistics and high-energy transfers. Stellar Alpina reported a commercial hot-fire test in July 2026 within 82 days of incorporation and continues engine and test infrastructure development. Its September 2026 CHF 150,000 Venture Kick funding is additional early-stage support.
- Product
- Rotating detonation rocket engine and in-space propulsion
- Headquarters
- Zurich, Switzerland
- Technology milestone
- Hot-fire engine test completed
- Stage
- Early propulsion hardware development
Funding history
1 round · 1 with disclosed amounts| Announced | Round | Amount | Investors |
|---|---|---|---|
| Venture Kick funding | CHF 150K | Venture Kick — Participant |