1 The EIC Accelerator Project

The EIC Accelerator program is a key initiative under the European Innovation Council (EIC), designed to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and startups in Europe that are developing innovative technologies with the potential to disrupt markets and contribute to addressing global challenges. This funding mechanism primarily targets DeepTech companies, which are characterized by their advanced technological innovations and potential for significant societal impact.

The EIC Accelerator provides funding through a blended finance approach, which combines grant funding and equity investment. The grant component can reach up to €2.5 million, aimed at covering early-stage development costs, such as research and development, prototype creation, and initial market entry activities. In addition to the grant, the program offers equity financing of up to €15 million until 2024 and reduced to €10 million thereafter. This equity investment is intended to help companies scale their operations, refine their business models, and attract additional private sector funding.

The purpose of the EIC Accelerator is to bridge the funding gap that often exists for innovative startups, particularly in the DeepTech sector. By providing substantial financial resources, the program helps these companies not only to develop their technologies but also to validate their market fit and accelerate their growth trajectory. The EIC Accelerator plays a critical role in fostering a vibrant startup ecosystem in Europe, encouraging collaboration between private investors and innovative startups, and ultimately contributing to the competitiveness of the European economy on a global scale.

A notable winner of the EIC Accelerator is ConstellR GmbH, a German company that secured funding for its project titled HiVE, which stands for "Precise, Global Temperature Data for a Growing Planet." ConstellR focuses on delivering accurate and timely temperature data through innovative satellite technology. The company submitted its Step 2 proposal on March 23, 2022, and successfully advanced to a Step 3 interview, culminating in the award of EIC Accelerator funding.

The HiVE project aims to address critical challenges related to climate change and environmental monitoring by providing precise temperature measurements at a global scale. This technology is particularly significant in the context of a warming planet, where understanding temperature variations can inform climate action, agricultural practices, and disaster management strategies. The technology behind HiVE combines satellite imagery with advanced data analytics to deliver high-resolution temperature data that can be utilized across various sectors, including agriculture, urban planning, and environmental research.

The core technology leverages innovative thermal sensors deployed on satellites, capable of capturing high-fidelity temperature readings across vast geographical areas. These sensors are designed to detect minute changes in temperature, allowing for enhanced monitoring of climate trends and anomalies. The data generated can be integrated into existing environmental models, providing stakeholders with actionable insights to make informed decisions regarding climate adaptation and mitigation.

In summary, the EIC Accelerator program plays a pivotal role in empowering innovative startups like ConstellR GmbH, providing them with the necessary resources to translate their groundbreaking technologies into scalable solutions that address pressing global challenges. Through initiatives such as the HiVE project, the EIC Accelerator not only supports the growth of individual companies but also contributes to the overarching goal of fostering a sustainable and resilient future for the planet.

2 The Funding Rounds

ConstellR GmbH: Financing History and Funding Rounds Since EIC Accelerator (March 2022)

ConstellR GmbH, based in Germany, is a space technology company specializing in thermal imaging satellites for precision agriculture and environmental monitoring. Following its successful application to the EIC Accelerator (Step 2 proposal submitted March 23, 2022), the company has demonstrated significant fundraising momentum with multiple funding rounds and expanding investor interest.

Financing Raised

• As of July 2023, ConstellR has raised nearly €24 million in total funding.
• This includes both equity investments and grant support since its founding.

Funding Rounds: Timing, Amounts, and Structure

Pre-EIC Accelerator

February 2021: Closed a pre-seed round of €4 million.

Post-EIC Accelerator Submission & Success

March 2022: Received a €2.5 million grant from the European Innovation Council (EIC) as part of winning the EIC Accelerator program.

Seed Round(s)

• November 2022: Closed $10 million (~€9.8 million at that time) in seed funding.
• Co-led by Lakestar and VSquared.
• Participating investors included FTTF, IQT, Amathaon Capital, Natural Ventures, EIT Food, OHB Venture Capital, Next Humanity, Seraphim.
• Purpose: Development of first two satellites (HiVE program), completion of pilot programs, expansion of data processing platform.
• July 24th, 2023: Extended its seed round by over €7 million to reach a total seed round size of €17 million.
• Lead investor for this tranche was Karista.
• New participant Einstein Industries Ventures joined; existing investors also contributed (FTTF, Lakestar, Vsquared etc.).
• Purpose: Accelerate deployment of new thermal satellites; expand commercial footprint with focus on US market demand; reinforce position as leading provider in Europe.

Investors Involved

Seed/Extension Investors

• Karista (lead for July '23 extension)
• Einstein Industries Ventures
• Lakestar
• Vsquared
• FTTF
• Amathaon Capital
• Natural Ventures
• OHB Venture Capital/OHB Ventures
• IQT

– Next Humanity – Seraphim – EIT Food

Notable Investor Roles Karista’s involvement is strategic for French market entry; Einstein Industries brings deep space industry expertise. Key board representation from lead venture partners such as Steven Jacobs at Lakestar was noted after the November '22 round.

Use of Funds

Funds across these rounds have been earmarked to: – Develop commercial satellite systems (“HiVE” constellation). – Advance data products such as “celestr” land surface temperature datasets. – Expand operational presence into North American markets responding to high US customer demand. – Reinforce European leadership via institutional contracts like Copernicus Programme participation.

Company Valuation & Exit Events

No public information is available regarding explicit company valuations during these rounds or any announced exit events such as IPOs or acquisitions up through April 24th, 2025. The focus remains on scaling operations rather than exit preparation at this stage.

Summary Table: Recent Funding Timeline

Date	Round/Grant	Amount	Lead Investors	Notes
Feb ‘21	Pre-seed	€4M	Not specified	Initial development
Mar ‘22	Grant	€2.5M	European Innovation Council(EIC)	Won via EIC Accelerator
Nov ‘22	Seed	$10M (~€9.8M)	Lakestar & VSquared	First two satellites + platform
Jul ‘23	Seed Extension	>€7M	Karista	Total seed now at €17M

Total financing raised since inception approaches €24 million, inclusive of grants.

No Reported Exit Events or Public Valuation Data

ConstellR remains privately held with no disclosed IPOs or acquisition activity.

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Sources: Thermal Data Startup Constellr Extends Seed Round to €17M constellr secures new funding to springboard US expansion following substantial market demand from North America constellr secures $10M in Seed financing co-led by Lakestar and VSquared constellr Raises Funding to Close to €17M Seed Round – FinSMEs

3 The Press Releases

ConstellR GmbH: A Pioneer in Thermal Intelligence

ConstellR GmbH, a German company that won the EIC Accelerator funding on March 23, 2022, has been at the forefront of innovation in thermal intelligence. Since receiving the funding, ConstellR has made significant strides in technology advancements and partnerships.

Technology Advancements

• Satellite Launch: ConstellR successfully launched its first satellite, SkyBee-1, marking a milestone in global thermal monitoring. This satellite is part of a constellation that captures absolute temperature readings of the Earth's surface with high precision and unparalleled scale.
• Thermal Imaging: The company's satellites feature a cryocooled multispectral long-wave infrared instrument on a microsatellite platform, revolutionizing agriculture and infrastructure monitoring. The payload boasts a completely new design developed with OHB System AG.
• Agricultural Water Monitoring System: ConstellR launched its first thermal infrared Earth observation system for global water monitoring, enhancing smart agriculture through early detection of crop health changes.

Partnerships

• German Space Agency (DLR): ConstellR signed a multi-year contract with DLR to provide high-resolution thermal data for Earth observation research. This partnership highlights the role of thermal imaging in solving national and global challenges.
• Mayday.ai: The company partnered with Mayday.ai to enhance disaster management by integrating thermal data into risk and disaster analytics platforms.

Team Updates and Funding

While specific team updates are not detailed in recent press releases, ConstellR's leadership and innovation are underscored by its strategic partnerships and technological advancements. The EIC Accelerator funding in 2022 was a significant milestone for the company, supporting its growth and development efforts.

Press Releases and Updates

ConstellR regularly updates its website and social media with news on partnerships, technological achievements, and industry recognition. The latest updates include the launch of its satellite and partnerships with key players in the space industry.

Sources:

• Blog & News | constellr
• constellr Launches First Satellite, Ushering in a New Era of Global Thermal Monitoring
• constellr | The world's most accurate thermal intelligence
• constellr Shares Thermal Image From Its First Sat
• ConstellR launches their first agricultural water monitoring system into orbit
• constellr Wins New German Space Agency EO Deal
• constellr Signs Multi-Year Contract with the German Space Agency
• ConstellR and Mayday.ai partner to provide an unprecedented common operating picture for risk and disaster management

4 The Technology Advancements

ConstellR GmbH: Current Capabilities and Advancements

ConstellR GmbH, a German NewSpace company, has made significant strides in the field of thermal intelligence since receiving the EIC Accelerator funding on March 23, 2022. The company specializes in providing high-resolution thermal data via satellite technology, which is crucial for various industries such as agriculture, urban planning, and infrastructure monitoring.

Current Capabilities

• Thermal Intelligence: ConstellR offers advanced thermal imaging capabilities with a spatial resolution of 30 meters, which can be sharpened to 10 meters, allowing for precise temperature measurements accurate to within 1-2 Kelvin.
• Satellite Technology: The company has launched its first satellite, SkyBee-1, on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, marking a new era in global thermal monitoring with unprecedented accuracy.
• Market Expansion: ConstellR has secured additional funding to expand its operations in the U.S., addressing substantial market demand for its thermal data services.

Advancements Since EIC Funding

Since receiving the EIC funding, ConstellR has achieved several milestones:

• Launch of Agricultural Water Monitoring System: The company successfully launched its first thermal infrared earth observation system, LisR, for global water monitoring. This system is designed to detect early signs of water stress in crops, enabling farmers to take preventive measures.
• Expansion Plans: ConstellR is planning further satellite launches to establish a constellation capable of daily, real-time global temperature monitoring. This will enhance climate resilience and resource management across various sectors.
• Partnerships and Funding: The company has secured investments from prominent venture capital firms, facilitating its expansion and reinforcing its position in the market.

Technology Improvements

ConstellR has improved its technology by:

• Innovative Payload Design: The company has developed a cryocooled multispectral long-wave infrared instrument for microsatellites, significantly reducing costs while maintaining high performance.
• Patented Architecture: ConstellR’s technology allows for high-quality infrared imaging on microsatellites, previously only achievable with much larger systems.

Market Demonstration

• Customer Engagement: ConstellR has secured its first major agrifood and institutional customers for its land surface temperature data product, Celestr, and is offering early access to its high-resolution data service.
• Copernicus Programme: The company has entered the Copernicus Programme as a contributing mission, positioning it to serve thousands of institutional customers across Europe.

New Patents and Scientific Studies

While there is no specific information on new patents filed or scientific studies published by ConstellR since the funding, the company's innovative technology and patented architecture are central to its advancements.

Sources

• constellr | The world's most accurate thermal intelligence
• constellr Captures Tokyo's Thermal Signature in Historic First Satellite Image
• ConstellR launches their first agricultural water monitoring system into orbit
• German Startup ConstellR launched their first agricultural water monitoring system into orbit
• constellr secures new funding to springboard US expansion

5 The Partnerships and Customers

ConstellR GmbH, a German deep tech startup specializing in thermal data services and Earth observation for agriculture and environmental monitoring, has developed multiple strategic partnerships and customer relationships since securing the EIC Accelerator funding in March 2022. These collaborations have positioned ConstellR as an emerging leader in delivering high-resolution thermal satellite data to various sectors.

Key Partnerships and Customers

1. German Space Agency (DLR)
In December 2024, ConstellR signed a multi-year contract with the German Space Agency (DLR), providing its community of Earth Observation researchers access to ConstellR’s high-resolution thermal data. This partnership aims to fill gaps in understanding earth system elements such as vegetation growth and heat fluxes, supporting research on global food security and climate action. The collaboration is described by DLR as strengthening Germany's role in space innovation through novel applications of thermal imaging data.

2. Cloudeo Group
Since late 2021, Cloudeo—a geospatial marketplace—has partnered with ConstellR to distribute its high-resolution thermal infrared data across Cloudeo’s extensive network of partners serving agriculture, oil & gas, and maritime markets. This enables customers to exploit enhanced spatial resolution temperature data for improved decision-making.

3. OHB SE / OHB Venture Capital GmbH
OHB reinforced its relationship with ConstellR by participating in a significant funding round announced November 2022 alongside Lakestar, VSquared, FTTF IQT Deep Tech Fund among others. This strategic investment supports ConstellR’s plans for launching a constellation of microsatellites aimed at precise crop health measurement from space combined with cloud-based analytics platforms tailored for agricultural users.

4. Mayday.ai Partnership
In November 2021, ConstellR partnered with Mayday.ai to integrate their high spatial resolution satellite imagery into Mayday.ai’s risk intelligence platform focused on disaster prevention and management globally. This collaboration enhances AI fusion capabilities by combining real-time disaster risk intelligence with precise Earth Observation data from satellites.

Nature of New Relationships

• The contract with the German Space Agency formalizes scientific use access enabling research innovation.
• The partnership with Cloudeo expands commercial reach into multiple industries by embedding thermal imaging into broader geospatial service offerings.
• Investment-driven cooperation via OHB provides financial backing coupled with aerospace expertise facilitating satellite deployment scale-up.
• Collaboration with Mayday.ai focuses on combining datasets for improved AI-powered disaster prediction tools.

Impact on Market Positioning

These relationships collectively position ConstellR as a critical player bridging advanced microsatellite technology innovations and practical applications across science (DLR), agriculture (via investor networks), industry verticals (Cloudeo clients), and disaster management systems (Mayday.ai). By anchoring itself within both public research institutions like DLR as well as commercial ecosystems through partnerships like Cloudeo’s marketplace network or specialized AI firms such as Mayday.ai:

• ConstellR gains enhanced credibility, validated by governmental contracts that elevate trust among other potential customers.
• Its technology ecosystem scales rapidly, leveraging partner distribution channels.
• Broader market penetration occurs across diverse sectors, including climate monitoring, smart farming/agriculture optimization, environmental conservation efforts, oil & gas monitoring.

Advancements in Technology & Scaling

The partnerships facilitate:

• Access to new user communities demanding precise Land Surface Temperature (LST) insights derived from constellr's patented virtual calibration technology enabling microsatellites at fraction cost yet large-satellite quality.
• Greater operational scale via planned expansion of their HiVE constellation from initial satellites launching between late 2024 through mid-decade toward approximately 30 satellites by 2032 — supported financially/technologically by strategic investors including OHB Venture Capital.
• Integration opportunities combining real-time EO datasets into AI-driven platforms promoting innovative use cases like wildfire detection or crop stress analytics enhancing product sophistication beyond raw imagery alone.

This synergy helps democratize access to affordable daily global land surface temperature maps allowing precision agriculture improvements along water usage efficiency lines while contributing actionable insights towards climate resilience programs worldwide.

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Sources

• Empowering Collaboration: The constellr Journey
• constellr partners with Viewpoint
• constellr Signs Multi-Year Contract with the German Space Agency
• New partnership with thermal satellite company ConstellR | cloudeo
• OHB participates in latest funding round for constelrr
• Constelrr Launches First Satellite
• Constelrr Surface Temperature product specifications PDF
• Mayday.ai And ConstelRR Partner On Disaster Prevention

6 The Hiring and Company Growth

Overview of ConstellR GmbH

ConstellR GmbH is a NewSpace data and services company based in Germany, focusing on thermal intelligence through satellite technology. Founded in 2020, the company has experienced significant growth and development, especially following its success in the EIC Accelerator funding in March 2022.

Current Headcount and Team Size

As of early reports, ConstellR has grown from three founders to over 25 employees across aerospace engineering, data science, software development, and commercial teams. This growth indicates a substantial expansion in various disciplines to support their mission.

Hiring and Current Openings

ConstellR is actively recruiting for positions such as Back End Engineers, emphasizing skills in Python, APIs, databases, and experience in the EO sector or NewSpace startups. This hiring effort reflects their commitment to enhancing their technological capabilities and expanding their team with diverse talent.

Growth and Scaling

Since its inception, the company has demonstrated rapid growth, both in terms of personnel and technological advancements. Their team has expanded significantly, and they are leveraging partnerships with industry heavyweights like OHB and the European Space Agency to de-risk their technology development. The addition of new team members, particularly in technical roles, is crucial for scaling and growing the company, enabling them to develop and deploy innovative space-based solutions more effectively.

Key Positions and Recent Hires

Key positions within ConstellR include roles like CEO (Max Gulde), COO (Cassi Welling), CTO (Marius Bierdel), and various VP positions across different departments. While specific recent hires are not detailed, the company's emphasis on expanding its technical and data science capabilities suggests that new recruits are contributing significantly to their mission to enhance environmental monitoring and climate resilience.

Future Implications and Scaling

The hiring of new team members, especially in technical and data-driven roles, positions ConstellR for continued growth and innovation. These additions are pivotal in developing and launching advanced satellite technologies, such as their HiVE constellation, which aims to provide unparalleled thermal data insights. By scaling their team with skilled professionals, ConstellR can accelerate the development of sustainable solutions, contributing to several UN Sustainable Development Goals like Zero Hunger and Clean Water.

Management and Founding Team Changes

There are no reported major changes in the management or founding team of ConstellR since receiving the EIC Accelerator funding. The company's leadership remains focused on driving technological innovation and expanding their global impact through strategic partnerships and talent acquisition.

Sources:

• About | constellr
• constellr company information
• ConstellR - Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft
• NewSpace Startup ConstellR
• ConstellR launches their first agricultural water monitoring system
• Back End Engineer - constellr GmbH
• Careers homepage
• German Startup ConstellR launched their first agricultural water monitoring system

7 The Media Features and Publications

Overview of ConstellR GmbH

ConstellR GmbH is a pan-European technology company based in Germany, focused on providing high-precision smart farming and resource management solutions. Since receiving the EIC Accelerator funding in March 2022, the company has made significant advancements in the field of Earth Observation (EO).

Media Features and Publications

ConstellR has been featured in various media outlets for its innovative approach to using space-based technology for agricultural purposes. Notable publications include Via Satellite, Satellite Today, and GeoWeek News, which highlight the company's breakthroughs in thermal data services and land surface temperature monitoring.

Podcasts and Interviews

Max Gulde, CEO of Constellr, was featured in a special episode of the Food Fight Podcast by EIT Food. This episode explored the intersection of space technology and food security, highlighting Constellr's role in addressing climate change through satellite technology.

Conference and Fair Visits

While specific details on recent conference visits are not readily available, Constellr's participation in events is generally focused on showcasing its innovative satellite technology and its applications in agriculture and climate monitoring. Events like TOA Berlin, which emphasize technology and innovation, would be relevant platforms for Constellr to present its work.

Involvement in Events

ConstellR's involvement in events typically revolves around promoting its cutting-edge thermal data services and partnerships. For example, the company partnered with Viewpoint to broadcast a commercial on national television networks, highlighting its smart farming innovations and contributions to global food security.

Partnerships and Launches

In 2023, Constellr signed a multi-launch agreement with Exolaunch to deploy its HiVE microsat constellation. This constellation is designed to provide precise land surface temperature data, crucial for agricultural management and climate monitoring. In January 2025, Constellr successfully launched its first satellite, Sky-Bee-1, marking a significant milestone in global thermal monitoring.

Summary of Activities

• Media and Publications: Featured in notable space and technology publications for its thermal data services.
• Podcasts and Interviews: Highlighted in the Food Fight Podcast discussing space technology and food security.
• Events and Partnerships: Engaged in partnerships like Viewpoint and Exolaunch to advance its technology and market reach.
• Launches: Successfully launched its first satellite in January 2025 as part of its HiVE constellation.

Sources

• constellr
• constellr Launches First Satellite, Ushering in a New Era of Global Thermal Monitoring
• Constellr Launches First Satellite, Pioneering Global Thermal Monitoring
• Constellr Wins New German Space Agency EO Deal
• Constellr and Exolaunch Sign Multi-Launch Agreement
• Harnessing the Power of Satellites with Constellr
• Program - TOA Berlin