KMI Space receives $3.5M in state funding for new spacecraft launch

MARQUETTE, Mich. (WLUC) - A Marquette space company is one step closer to launching a new craft. KMI Space received $3.5 million to finalize development, design and operations of Laelaps.

KMI Space Head of Engineering Sam Cassidy says the craft will relocate satellites currently in orbit.

“This spacecraft will be the full-scale mission where we will be demonstrating our reach technology previously seen on the ISS in 2024 and 2025 in its full-sized configuration,” Cassidy said.

The funding is thanks to the state’s Make it in Michigan Competitiveness Fund. According to a state press release, the spacecraft will extend the life of existing satellites and reduce the cost and frequency of replacements. The project also leverages $34 million from the Strategic Funding Increase program through SpaceWERX, the innovation arm of the U.S. Space Force.

Cassidy says this is a first-time endeavor for any company to complete, and the funds are essential to make the launch happen.

“Will really allow us to demonstrate our technology, and that will help us market it and really help us scale this for all customers in the government and private sector,” he said.

Cassidy says the project will also create about 60 additional jobs in Marquette, mostly in engineering operations. He says securing this funding speaks to how Michigan, especially in the U.P., is not out of the race for space technology development.

“We’re just as close to space just as anywhere else on this planet, and Michigan is a space hub, Michigan is a space development center for many companies, and we are one of those companies located right here in Marquette,” Cassidy said.

He says KMI Space will release more details about the craft when its contract is finalized. The company plans for a 2028 launch date.

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