Italian startup ORiS raises funding for laser power-beaming technology

July 21, 2026 - 04:52

An Italian startup focused on wireless energy transmission has raised 5 million euros, equivalent to about 5.7 million dollars, to advance its laser power-beaming technology for satellites. ORiS, based in Milan, aims to solve a growing problem in the space industry: how to keep satellites powered without relying solely on solar panels or heavy batteries.

The company's approach uses lasers to beam energy directly to a satellite in orbit. This could allow spacecraft to recharge without needing to dock with a station or wait for sunlight. The technology is particularly relevant for satellites in low Earth orbit, which spend a significant portion of their time in the planet's shadow. ORiS says its system could also power satellites that need to maneuver to new positions or operate in permanently shadowed regions of the moon.

The funding round was led by a consortium of European venture capital firms and includes support from the Italian Space Agency. ORiS plans to use the money to build a ground-based prototype and test the laser transmission system within the next two years. The startup also intends to hire additional engineers specializing in optics and aerospace systems.

While the concept of wireless power transmission has been explored for decades, practical applications in space have remained limited. ORiS believes its compact laser design and efficient beam control will make the technology viable for commercial satellite operators looking to extend mission lifetimes and reduce costs. The company has not disclosed a timeline for its first orbital demonstration but stated that initial ground tests are expected to begin in 2025.