StartupWashingtonLast reviewed September 2026

Portal Space Systems

In-space transportation systems

Overview

Portal Space Systems develops highly maneuverable spacecraft for moving payloads between orbits. Its Supernova vehicle uses solar thermal propulsion, concentrating sunlight to heat propellant, to deliver both high thrust and large orbit changes, and the company has also announced a smaller spacecraft called Starburst. Based in Bothell, Washington, Portal targets national security, civil, and commercial missions that need rapid orbital mobility.

AI Outlook

Exploring

Portal Space Systems is focused on propulsion and orbital transfer hardware, with AI expected to support autonomous guidance and navigation as missions advance.

Student Hiring

Entry-Level Friendly