Space drug manufacturing is no longer science fiction:it’s becoming one of the most exciting frontiers in biotech. By using microgravity conditions, startups are creating drug crystals, protein structures, and biomaterials with properties impossible to replicate on Earth.
After a slowdown in 2024, marked by funding challenges and delayed missions, 2025 signals a strong revival in space pharma. Fresh investment, breakthrough R&D, and new industry partnerships are driving momentum in space pharmaceutical innovation. From monoclonal antibody crystallization to regenerative medicine, companies are proving that space can unlock a new era of healthcare solutions.
In this article, we spotlight the Top 10 startups in space drug manufacturing that are leading this 2025 comeback and shaping the future of medicine in orbit.
For deeper insights, check the full Linknovate report on the latest advancements and data in space pharma.
1. Varda Space Industries
Varda is pioneering in-space pharmaceutical manufacturing, leveraging microgravity to create advanced drug crystals, including ritonavir. Their Series C round raised $187M, totaling roughly $329M in funding.
2. SpacePharma
A Swiss trailblazer in automated, miniaturized microgravity labs, SpacePharma has launched multiple labs (like DIDO, SPAd series) to the ISS, and is working toward large-scale orbital pharmaceutical manufacturing (MoTi).
3. Space Forge
This UK-based company develops the “ForgeStar” returnable satellite platform for manufacturing pharmaceuticals and semiconductors in orbit. Backed by significant UK and European funding, and with a fresh $30M Series A, they’re enabling reuse for on-orbit factories and pioneering microgravity-as-a-service.
4. Sierra Space
Sierra Space is partnering with Merck to develop microgravity crystallization modules aboard Dream Chaser spacecraft. Their mission aims to produce superior monoclonal antibody crystals for better drug delivery systems.
5. Astral Materials
Focused on in-space crystal growth using mini-furnaces, particularly for medication-grade crystals, Astral is part of the growing commercial in-orbit manufacturing scene.
6. ResearchSat
ResearchSat provides end-to-end solutions for researchers, managing the entire process from payload design to launch logistics and data return. At the heart of their innovation are compact, autonomous laboratories that make microgravity research more affordable and accessible.
7. MicroQuin
Using 3D cell cultures aboard the ISS, MicroQuin investigates tumorigenesis to better understand cancer development. It’s among the promising space biotech ventures beyond crystallization.
8. Revbio
This startup explores bone regenerative technologies in microgravity — like the synthetic bone material Tetranite — with potential terrestrial benefits for osteoporosis and fracture healing.
9. Exobiosphere
Exobiosphere is advancing microgravity-enabled drug discovery, building a platform to accelerate therapeutic development in space. The company completed a €2 million ($2.2 million) seed round to fuel its research and technology development.
10. Eascra Biotech
Eascra Biotech is developing microgravity-enabled biomanufacturing solutions, focusing on novel biomaterials and therapeutic applications. The company has partnered with Axiom Space to advance its in-space R&D and commercialization efforts.
Why 2025 Marks a Turning Point
- Funding Rebounds: Varda’s massive Series C influx ($187M) underscores renewed investor enthusiasm.
- Commercial Operational Momentum: Companies like Sierra Space and Astral Materials are transitioning from concept to execution with new orbital missions.
- Diversification of Innovation: Beyond crystallization, ventures are exploring organ synthesis, synthetic bone materials, mini-labs, and diagnostics, expanding space pharma’s horizons.
The Future of Space Biotech Innovation
The surge of space drug manufacturing startups in 2025 highlights how quickly this field is maturing after the slowdown in 2024. From microgravity-grown drug crystals to regenerative medicine breakthroughs, these companies are proving that the future of biotech innovation in space is both promising and commercially viable.
If you want to dive deeper into the latest R&D records, innovation news, and emerging companies shaping this industry, book a demo with our Linknovate experts. Our platform helps you track innovation trends, discover key players, and stay ahead of the curve in space pharmaceutical manufacturing and biotech innovation.
For deeper insights, download the full report on space pharma companies and trends.
