Alumni-Owned Company Tests Prototype on ISS

An innovative technology prototype developed by alumni-owned, Marquette-based Kall Morris Inc. (KMI) arrived at the International Space Station for testing earlier this week. The company's REACCH capture and effector uses gecko-inspired adhesion to secure and selectively release space objects of nearly any shape, size or surface condition without causing damage. With this mission, KMI advances its goal of developing a full-scale debris removal spacecraft known as Laelaps. It also reinforces the company's commitment to "keeping space clear for all," enhancing safety for future space exploration, and advancing in-space servicing and manufacturing.

"This mission is a culmination of years of determination, countless hours and a vision that started as a dream," said Austin Morris, KMI co-founder and director of engineering, in a press release. "Seeing REACCH launch to the ISS was beyond words; it's proof that with hard work and relentless commitment to innovation, what once seemed impossible is now within reach. We are incredibly proud to represent Michigan on this global stage. This launch is not just a significant step for KMI, but also for the future of sustainable space exploration. We wouldn't be here without the relentless dedication of our Space Ranger team and the unwavering support of our partners, community and family."

Established in 2019, KMI has emerged as a pioneer in space logistics and sustainable orbital operations, securing more than $5 million in funding and partnering with leading space organizations worldwide.

The company's story actually traces back five years earlier to when co-founders Adam Kall, Austin Morris and Troy Morris were students at NMU. While they established a strong interconnected relationship in those years of study and forays into business experience, it wouldn't be until after their respective graduations that the trio would later reunite. Read a past alumni magazine feature on them here.

With this demonstration on the International Space Station, KMI aims to showcase REACCH's role in orbital sustainability, with applications spanning relocation of satellites, space asset maintenance, and future debris removal missions. This launch reflects KMI's broader Active Debris Removal (ADR) and Relocation As A Service (RAAS) approach, leveraging exclusive technologies to offer reliable debris management solutions to civil, commercial, and national space agencies, the press release stated.

To learn more about KMI and its journey, visit www.kallmorris.com.To watch a replay of the prototype's launch aboard the SpaceX CRS-31 cargo mission, visit NASA on YouTube.

NMU alumni and KMI co-founders (from left) Adam Kall, Austin Morris and Troy Morris