Christchurch firm raises $42m for refuelling tech that could see much lower-flying satellites

PremiumUpdatedChris KeallTechnology Editor/Senior Business Writer·NZ Herald·16 Jun, 2026 09:00 PM6 mins to read‌Dawn Aerospace's Mk II Aurora becomes the first Kiwi designed made aircraft to break the sound barrier. Video / Dawn AerospaceChristchurch-based Dawn Aerospace has raised US$25 million ($42m) at a US$195m valuation - the bulk of which is earmarked for satellite refuelling technology that could revolutionise the industry.

Today, when a satellite runs out of fuel for its thrusters, it falls out of the sky – typically after three