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HEO Robotics, a Sydney-based start-up, has successfully raised million in a Series A funding round led by AirTree Ventures, aimed to address the growing concern of foreign satellites approaching commercial satellites in orbit. The funding will be utilized to install cameras on customers’ and partners’ satellites, allowing them to monitor and minimize collisions with space debris, as well as assist with maintenance tasks.

HEO Robotics’ software platform has gained traction in both commercial and government sectors, with potential military applications. The company initially planned to rely on the million raised in its 2021 seed-funding round, but the increasing demand from customers to investigate the presence and behavior of foreign-owned satellites compelled them to seek additional funding.

CEO William Crowe expressed concern over the close proximity of these mysterious satellites to commercial satellites in geostationary orbit, stating that they come within tens of kilometers, which is considered unusual in these distant orbits. The inability to determine their intentions poses significant security risks as vital data passes through these satellites. While he declined to disclose the identities of the two main foreign operators, Crowe emphasized the need to understand their activities and potential threats they may pose.

Expanding the camera network into geostationary orbit comes at a considerable expense due to the distance and complexity involved. However, HEO Robotics aims to fund the expansion not only within Australia, the UK, and the USA but also in Japan. The company’s valuation after the funding round increased significantly from its seed round, indicating positive growth and progress.

The funding will not only enhance HEO’s capabilities in monitoring satellites and reducing collision risks but also enable the company to expand its presence internationally, ensuring a safer and more secure environment in space.

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