A Seattle-based startup is using metamaterials to build cheaper, more flexible satellite radar systems. The firm has secured $24 million in its Series A funding round, bringing total capital raised to $30 million. The investment will accelerate production and support defense contracts, according to the company’s announcement. The fresh capital will help Kapta expand manufacturing, qualify its hardware for spaceflight, and prepare for initial orbital demonstration missions.
The round was led by Washington Harbour Partners, a firm focused on defense technology, with Bison Ventures as co-leader. Previous backers, including MetaVC Partners, a fund backed by Bill Gates and former Microsoft executive Nathan Myhrvold, joined alongside MYDA Capital, Entrada Ventures, and others.
Read Also: Amazon cuts hundreds in retail roles worldwide
The company’s technology, called Metamaterial Electronically Scanned Array (MESA), replaces traditional radar systems with a modular design that reduces costs and power requirements. By leveraging the unique properties of metamaterials, the design can be produced with fewer components, which also shortens assembly time. The approach enables high-resolution tracking of ground and airborne targets without the complexity of conventional satellite radar.
The company’s founders, Milton Perque and Adam Bily, previously led radar development at Echodyne. Perque also worked at Metacept and Intellectual Ventures, while Bily held roles at Apple and Astranis. Their experience aligns with the growing demand for advanced satellite surveillance in both defense and commercial applications.