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

In an exciting development for space technology, K2, a startup spearheaded by former SpaceX engineers Karan and Neel Kunjur, is set to deploy one of the most powerful satellites ever constructed. The satellite, named Gravitas, is packed into a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, with a launch anticipated as soon as this month. Gravitas boasts an impressive weight of two metric tons and will unfold solar panels that extend up to 40 meters. The satellite is designed to generate 20 kW of electricity, intended to power advanced payloads such as high-performance sensors and computing systems. For context, the larger ViaSat-3 satellite produces over 25 kW, while Starlink V2 units are estimated to generate around 28 kW. In contrast, most conventional satellites only provide a few kilowatts. Karan Kunjur, the CEO of K2, emphasizes the significance of increased power in space operations, stating, "The future is higher power." The company has successfully raised $425 million, achieving a valuation of $3 billion as of December 2025. This launch marks a pivotal moment for K2 as it embarks on its journey into operational space missions, which Kunjur refers to as "the start of our iterative journey." The Gravitas mission is set to carry 12 undisclosed payload modules from various clients, including the Department of Defense, alongside a groundbreaking 20 kW electric thruster expected to be the most powerful ever utilized in space. Kunjur outlines a multi-tiered success evaluation for the mission: first, deploying the spacecraft and generating power; second, operating its payloads and testing the thruster; and finally, using the thruster to elevate the satellite into a higher orbit. Kunjur acknowledges the challenges of launching a new spacecraft, noting that 85% of its components have been developed in-house. He stresses the importance of collecting data to inform future designs, with plans for K2 to launch eleven satellites over the next two years, blending demonstration and commercial missions. Looking ahead to 2028, Kunjur envisions K2 producing satellites that will facilitate the establishment of commercial networks of high-powered space vehicles. As satellites increasingly influence economic landscapes, enhanced power capabilities will be essential. Kunjur anticipates a significant impact on communications networks, where increased power translates to better throughput and resistance to jamming. However, the high costs associated with launching satellites remain a hurdle. K2's founding vision leverages the Starship rocket, currently under development by SpaceX, which promises to lower launch costs significantly. While the timeline for Starship’s operational capabilities remains uncertain, the demand for higher power in orbit positions K2 uniquely in the market. Despite launch costs around $7.2 million on a Falcon 9, Kunjur argues that Gravitas's price point of $15 million is competitive against traditional contractors' high-powered satellites, all while offering superior capabilities compared to similarly priced smaller units. As larger rockets become operational, Kunjur’s team is prepared to expand their options, with designs for a 100 kW satellite already in place at their facility. "The thinking is, let’s build all the components that we’re going to need to be a first mover when Starship and New Glenn are available for everybody else," Kunjur shared with TechCrunch.