The Exploration Company

The Exploration Company (TEC) is a European space company founded by Hélène Huby that develops reusable spacecraft and propulsion for cargo and future crew transport between Earth and orbit. Its Nyx reusable capsule targets space-station logistics including a planned ISS docking and return, while Storm is a high-thrust oxygen-methane engine for a future European heavy-lift launcher. In September 2026 TEC raised a $450 million Series C co-led by Bessemer Venture Partners, Atomico and the Scaleup Europe Fund (EQT), with Balderton, Plural, Cherry and Red River West, taking total funding to about $680 million—reportedly the largest round by an EU-headquartered company led by a female founder—alongside more than $2 billion in customer contracts and commitments. Sources: Tech.eu 8 Sep 2026.