Momentus Partners with Portal Space Systems for On-orbit Demonstration Mission in Early 2026

Momentus Inc. has partnered with Portal Space Systems for an on-orbit demonstration mission in early 2026. The mission will validate Portal's advanced flight computer technology aboard Momentus' Vigoride 7 Orbital Service Vehicle, which is scheduled to launch on a SpaceX Transporter mission in February 2026. The successful validation of these critical systems is essential for ensuring the autonomous operation of highly maneuverable spacecraft.

Momentus Inc. (NASDAQ: MNTS) has partnered with Portal Space Systems for an on-orbit demonstration mission scheduled for early 2026. The mission aims to validate Portal's advanced flight computer technology aboard Momentus' Vigoride 7 Orbital Service Vehicle, which is set to launch on a SpaceX Transporter mission in February 2026. This collaboration is critical for ensuring the autonomous operation of highly maneuverable spacecraft.

Momentus, a leading U.S. commercial space firm specializing in satellite solutions, in-space transportation, and orbital infrastructure, will provide hosted payload services for Portal's inaugural on-orbit demonstration. The mission will test Portal's flight computer, avionics, and flight software under the challenging conditions of space, where exposure to radiation, extreme temperatures, and vacuum poses significant operational challenges [1].

Portal Space Systems, founded in 2021 by former SpaceX VP of Propulsion, Jeff Thornburg, emerged from stealth in April 2024. The company's mission is to develop and validate next-generation flight computer technology essential for autonomous spacecraft control. "In-space validation is the cornerstone of de-risking space systems, especially when you’re building a spacecraft like Supernova that has to think, act and react across transorbital domains," said Jeff Thornburg, CEO and Co-Founder of Portal Space Systems [1].

The Vigoride 7 mission will carry multiple mission-critical payloads, including those from the U.S. Defense Department and commercial customers. Momentus CEO John Rood expressed enthusiasm for supporting Portal’s technological advancements and the opportunity to demonstrate new capabilities for in-orbit assembly, rendezvous, close proximity sensing, and computing and power generation [1].

Momentus' offerings cater to government and commercial clients for various missions, including communications, missile tracking, and scientific endeavors. The company's stock has seen significant volatility, declining over 76% in the past year, but analysts project revenue growth of 30% for the current year [2].

The collaboration between Momentus and Portal Space Systems is a significant step forward in the development of advanced space technology. The successful validation of Portal's flight computer technology will enhance autonomous spacecraft control and advance cutting-edge space capabilities.

References:
[1] https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250528261992/en/Momentus-to-Host-Portal-Space-Systems-Inaugural-On-orbit-Demonstration-Mission
[2] https://www.investing.com/news/company-news/momentus-partners-with-portal-for-space-computer-tech-test-93CH-4067897