Accelerating Satellite Innovation: How Reflex Aerospace Uses the Altair Startup Program to Build Smarter and Faster

At Reflex Aerospace, innovation isn’t just about what we build, it’s about how we build it. As a European NewSpace company designing customized satellites between 50 and 500 kilograms, Reflex is reshaping how missions are delivered by focusing on speed, precision, and flexibility. To achieve that, the company leverages cutting-edge digital tools through the Altair Startup Program, enabling advanced simulation and design across every stage of satellite development.

“Our goal is to make satellites that are not standardized, but fully customized for each mission,” explains Felix Motzki, CTO of Reflex Aerospace. “We’re building the satellites, but also the infrastructure, processes, and frameworks that allow us to deliver very fast. That’s our USP.”

Through the Altair Startup Program, Reflex engineers have access to a comprehensive suite of AI-driven simulation and modeling tools that lower the barrier to entry and allow for experimentation at scale. “Up until now, we’ve mainly used the Altair tools for mechanical and structural simulations,” Felix says. “But we’re expanding into all areas of satellite design and applying simulations early in the process and throughout every design stage.”

This early integration of simulation is crucial to Reflex’s fast-paced development cycle. By testing, optimizing, and validating designs virtually before hardware is built, the team can shorten timelines and reduce risk - a key advantage in today’s rapidly evolving space manufacturing landscape.

Felix highlights the collaborative nature of the partnership: “Working with Altair has been a great experience. Not just with the technology, but also with the team. We were shown that without additional cost, we could explore a large range of tools and get hands-on support in how to use them effectively.”

For other startups in aerospace and beyond, Felix is enthusiastic: “I’d definitely recommend the Altair Startup Program. It’s a great opportunity to explore the right tools, learn what fits your needs, and grow with a partner who really supports your mission.”

Through partnerships like this, Reflex Aerospace continues to push the boundaries of European satellite manufacturing, proving that the future of space is agile, digital, and built on smart collaboration.