K2 to launch its first high-powered satellite for space compute

K2 Space, founded by former SpaceX engineers, is preparing to launch its first satellite, Gravitas, aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9. The 2-metric-ton spacecraft with a 40-meter solar panel wingspan can generate 20 kW of power, making it one of the highest-powered satellites ever built. It will carry 12 payload modules for undisclosed customers including the DoD, and test a 20 kW electric thruster. K2 has raised $425 million and is valued at $3 billion, with plans to launch 11 more satellites over the next two years. The company's long-term vision is enabling orbital data centers, with designs already ready for a 100 kW satellite intended for when SpaceX Starship and Blue Origin New Glenn reduce launch costs.