The satellite manufacturing landscape is evolving rapidly with the rise of NewSpace companies—and Reflex Aerospace is at the forefront of this transformation. In a Telespazio Express Talks interview, Felix Motzki, Chief Technology Officer at Reflex Aerospace, offers valuable insights into the company's mission, culture, and impact on space sustainability.

From Medical Imaging to New Space Engineering

Motzki’s journey into aerospace was unconventional. With a background in electrical engineering and a decade of experience in biomedical imaging, he transitioned to the space sector driven by the unique technical challenges it offers. He initially worked on laser communication systems and quickly became fascinated with applying advanced, Earth-based technologies to the extreme environment of space.

What Makes Reflex Aerospace Stand Out?

Unlike traditional satellite manufacturers, Reflex Aerospace was founded with agility, pragmatism, and innovation at its core. The team, composed of seasoned space engineers and young talent, focuses on fast iteration, risk-tolerant development, and customer-specific satellite solutions. Their spacecraft are designed to be highly customizable, cost-effective, and rapidly deployable—addressing a growing market need for flexible space infrastructure.

A Sustainable Approach to Satellite Manufacturing

Sustainability is central to Reflex Aerospace’s mission. The company actively incorporates space debris mitigation strategies, including onboard systems that enable rapid deorbiting by increasing atmospheric drag. Moreover, Reflex uses generative design and additive manufacturing to minimize material usage and ensure that all components can burn up safely upon reentry—addressing the mounting problem of orbital debris.

Company Culture: The Power of Teamwork

Motzki emphasizes that Reflex Aerospace’s success is deeply rooted in its team-oriented culture. As the company scales, maintaining a strong collaborative spirit is key. Reflex fosters an environment where all team members—from interns to senior engineers—are empowered to contribute meaningfully to mission-critical projects.

What’s Next for Reflex Aerospace?

With its first customer publicly announced and its inaugural launch scheduled for 2024, Reflex Aerospace is well on its way to becoming a leading satellite manufacturer. The company’s success, according to Motzki, lies not in secret formulas but in clear focus, pragmatic execution, and a willingness to challenge industry norms.

If you're exploring innovative satellite manufacturers or looking for a partner to help bring your space-based payload to orbit, Reflex Aerospace represents a new benchmark for speed, sustainability, and custom solutions in the space sector.