Momentus Secures Defense Department Contract Expansion for In-Space Assembly of Large Structures
Momentus Inc. (NASDAQ: MNTS) (“Momentus” or the “Company”), a U.S. commercial space company specializing in satellite buses, space transportation, and in-orbit infrastructure services, has announced a significant expansion of its contract with the U.S. Department of Defense’s Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA). The contract focuses on an ambitious in-orbit demonstration of assembling large-scale structures in space. This milestone mission is set to launch aboard a SpaceX Transporter rideshare as early as 2026.
This contract expansion underscores Momentus’ growing role in advancing space-based technologies for government and commercial clients. The project aligns with DARPA’s Novel Orbital and Moon Manufacturing, Materials, and Mass-efficient Design (NOM4D) program, which aims to develop the necessary frameworks for constructing large, high-precision structures in space. As part of its contract obligations, Momentus will be responsible for launch arrangements, payload integration, and in-orbit hosting of a complex assembly system aboard its Vigoride Orbital Service Vehicle.
Momentus’ Role in the DARPA NOM4D Program
Under this newly awarded contract, Momentus will provide full-service mission support to DARPA’s NOM4D initiative. The core objective is to demonstrate key enabling technologies that facilitate the assembly of large structures in a microgravity environment. The mission will serve as a crucial step in validating the feasibility, performance, and long-term reliability of space-based construction methods.
Momentus originally secured the initial NOM4D contract in April 2024, successfully completing the first two phases of the agreement. The latest award marks the program’s third phase, carrying an estimated contract value of approximately $3.5 million. DARPA’s vision for NOM4D centers on pioneering new approaches to space construction, leveraging in-orbit manufacturing Defense Department techniques rather than traditional deployable structures, Defense Department which are optimized for ground-based assembly and launch survival.
This initiative opens doors for building solar arrays, antennas, optics, and other large systems that are otherwise constrained by the size limitations of launch vehicle payload fairings. The NOM4D program seeks to revolutionize space infrastructure by enabling the Defense Department transport of raw materials from Earth and assembling critical components directly in orbit. This approach aims to enhance efficiency and cost-effectiveness while expanding the range of possibilities for space exploration and utilization.
CEO’s Vision on In-Space Assembly
John Rood, Chief Executive Officer of Momentus, expressed enthusiasm about the contract expansion and the broader implications of in-space assembly.
“We’re thrilled to be supporting DARPA on this cutting-edge program and are looking forward to this exciting demonstration of key enabling technologies for in-space assembly,” Rood stated. “Cost-effective assembly of structures in space has the potential to transform how we operate in space. Structures that are too large to fit within the shroud of a launch vehicle can be robotically assembled in space, leading to less complex and more cost-effective structures. This could include large communications antennas, hubs for orbital manufacturing Defense Department of advanced materials, and even products like semiconductors.”
Rood also emphasized the broader impact of the contract, highlighting Momentus’ expanding portfolio of government contracts. “This latest contract from DARPA builds on the work Momentus has done to secure important contracts from NASA and the U.S. Space Development Agency in late 2024 to support missions in orbit to demonstrate new technology. Together, these contracts position the company well for future growth.”
The Significance of In-Space Manufacturing
The ability to assemble and manufacture large structures Defense Department in space presents groundbreaking opportunities for various industries. Traditional spacecraft and satellite designs must adhere to strict size and weight constraints imposed by rocket payload capacities. As a result, larger structures require complex deployment mechanisms that increase costs and engineering challenges. The NOM4D program aims to circumvent these challenges by developing a framework for constructing spacecraft and infrastructure elements directly in orbit.
This capability could significantly benefit various space-based applications, such as:
- Communications Satellites: Larger antennas and relay stations could improve global broadband coverage and strengthen satellite-based communications networks.
- Earth Observation and Astronomy: Enhanced optical and radio telescopes could be constructed in orbit, allowing for unprecedented observations of distant galaxies and Earth’s climate systems.
- Space-Based Manufacturing: The development Defense Department of high-quality materials, semiconductors, and pharmaceuticals in microgravity environments could lead to innovations with commercial and scientific benefits.
- Space Exploration Infrastructure: Modular space stations, lunar bases, and interplanetary transit hubs could be assembled in space, enabling deeper exploration of the Moon, Mars, and beyond.
- Satellite Servicing and Repair: The ability to assemble and repair satellites in orbit would extend the operational lifespan of existing space assets, reducing the need for frequent costly launches.
Momentus’ Vigoride Platform and Mission Capabilities
For this mission, Momentus’ Vigoride Orbital Service Vehicle will serve as the host platform for the in-space assembly demonstration. Designed to support diverse payloads, the Vigoride vehicle offers cost-effective in-space transportation, hosting, and deployment services for both government and commercial clients.
Key capabilities of the Vigoride platform include:
- Launching and deploying microsatellites up to 200 kg.
- Providing power support up to 1 kW.
- Operating hosted payloads in orbits ranging from above 500 km to below the International Space Station.
- Facilitating rideshare missions for multiple customers on a single launch.
This mission will mark the fourth Vigoride mission and the first to directly support DARPA. Momentus has additional capacity available for commercial and government clients seeking deployment or hosted payload services in early 2026. Interested parties are encouraged to contact the Momentus Commercial team at [email protected] while booking opportunities remain open.
Future Prospects and Industry Implications
The collaboration between Momentus and DARPA underscores a broader shift in the space industry toward developing infrastructure that enables long-term space utilization. By pioneering cost-effective and scalable in-space assembly technologies, this project lays the groundwork for more ambitious endeavors, such as space-based solar power stations and deep-space exploration habitats.
Momentus’ growing portfolio of government contracts highlights its credibility as a trusted partner in the evolving space sector. With past and ongoing engagements with NASA, the U.S. Space Development Agency, and now DARPA, the company is positioning itself as a leader in in-orbit transportation and infrastructure services.
The successful demonstration of large-scale in-space assembly could serve as a catalyst for future missions, opening doors for commercial partnerships and expanded government collaboration. As space exploration and commercialization continue to accelerate, companies like Momentus are poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of orbital and deep-space infrastructure.
About Momentus Inc.
Momentus Inc. is a U.S.-based commercial space company specializing in satellite buses and in-space infrastructure services. The company offers in-space transportation, hosted payload opportunities, and other orbital services to support the growing demand for space-based applications. With a mission to develop innovative space technologies, Momentus is dedicated to advancing the capabilities of in-space logistics and infrastructure development.