Where Are They Now Vol. 4 | KMI Returns from Orbit with REACCH and Expands Capabilities
- Cosmonauts Team
- Dec 9
- 3 min read
"Where Are They Now" is our ongoing spotlight series celebrating the achievements and forward momentum of SPACEtalks alumni, innovators who continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible in space.
In this third edition, we reconnect with Kall Morris Inc. (KMI) to hear how their pioneering work in orbital debris solutions and sustainable in-space operations has evolved since their SPACEtalks debut.
Have there been any major milestones or breakthroughs in your work or research recently?
Since KMI spoke at SPACEtalks, we completed our testing aboard the International Space Station as of May 2025. REACCH, our end effector for enabling soft and secure capture of objects in space, successfully returned from space and is back at headquarters for further investigation and development. Additionally, not long after REACCH returned, KMI was accepted into the Orbital Edge Accelerator to develop our Asteria persistent-attachment coupling technology for an exclusive opportunity to test aboard the International Space Station again in the future.
Can you share any updates on the project or idea you discussed during SPACEtalks?
In KMI’s SPACEtalk we discussed our business model to address an approach to end-of-life operations for satellites in orbit to increase their longevity and productivity. Since then, we have had many conversations with customers that highlight the demand of maintaining assets in space through relocation and logistic services. Conversations with customers and partners are building a foundation for sustainable operations in space for everything from satellite maneuvering to active debris removal.
What’s something you’ve accomplished recently that you’re particularly proud of?
Seeing the successful return of REACCH from space after the successful demonstrations on the ISS was a proud moment for the whole KMI team. Mere days after REACCH was returned to headquarters, KMI was able to host astronaut Sunita Williams and retired astronaut Dr. Anna Fisher in Marquette for a community lunch and learn that allowed us to bring space one step closer for members of our rural community, especially many students who may make up the next generation in space.
What developments in the space tech world have excited or surprised you most this year?
One exciting development in the space tech world this year was the launch of the Biomass satellite in April 2025. It is so easy to imagine our utilization of space has been well defined with GPS, communications, and earth imaging, leaving only improvements in these sectors and no new innovations. The Biomass satellite showed an innovative way to utilize the perspective of space to answer a critical question about Earth's climate future, and gives hope that there will continue to be advancements in how we utilize the space environment to benefit humanity in ways previously unimagined.
Are there any challenges the space sector is facing that you think aren’t getting enough attention?
KMI and many of our partners have faced the same challenge: funding. There are many avenues to government contracts, commercial customers, and investors - yet the pace of funding does not match the pace of innovation. Though this funding discrepancy has created a boot-strap environment for small businesses and startups, it has also enabled an ecosystem of understanding and support among small businesses and startups in the space sector.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with the community or highlight?
KMI continues to be grateful for the continued support of SPACEtalks. Having a chance to keep the community updated and hear updates from others is a crucial network for reaching a sustainable space industry together. We are excited to engage more with SPACEtalks in the future!
KMI’s journey shows what’s possible when innovation meets persistence.
From demonstrating technology aboard the ISS to shaping the future of sustainable orbital operations, their progress is proof that the path to a cleaner, more functional space environment is already underway.
We’re proud to have KMI in the SPACEtalks community, and we can’t wait to see what they accomplish next. Stay tuned for more stories spotlighting the leaders building the future of space.
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