As the race for next-generation launch vehicles intensifies, South Korean startup Unastella has secured $24 million in Series B funding, raising its total to $44 million. This funding round was led by Altos Ventures, alongside other investors such as Korea Development Bank and Strong Ventures. The startup aims to carve out a niche in a market traditionally dominated by the U.S. and China.
Unastella successfully launched its rocket, the Una Express-I, in May 2025, marking a significant milestone as the first real-world test of its systems. The company is focused on developing its own launch vehicles and engines, specifically targeting small satellite launches and future crewed suborbital flights. CEO Jae Park emphasizes the importance of validating the technology and business model through orbital launches.
The company employs a propulsion system that combines kerosene and liquid oxygen, similar to what is used in SpaceX's Falcon rockets. However, Unastella has opted for electric motor pumps instead of traditional turbo pumps, which allows for a simpler and more cost-effective design, despite some payload limitations. Park underscores that Unastella's goal is to expedite its market entry as a commercial launch provider, managing all operations from design to manufacturing in-house.