CubeSpace is a pioneering space-tech company specialising in fully integrated Attitude Determination and Control Systems (ADCS) for satellites to ensure precise orientation and directional adjustments. The company emerged from Stellenbosch University (SU), founded by Mike-Alec Kearney, Willem Jordaan and Jako Gerber, under the guidance of Professor (Emeritus) Herman Steyn, at SU Faculty of Engineering.
As the co-founder and CEO of CubeSpace ADCS, Mike-Alec Kearney, leads a dynamic team of 50 specialists dedicated to the advancement of space technology. Under his leadership the company has grown from startup to market leader, securing R47million in venture capital funding which has catapulted the company’s success and allowing them to further expand into the international market. To support their expansion, CubeSpace has acquired a 1,350sqm facility in Techno Park, Stellenbosch.
Kearney’s journey with CubeSpace began after he earned his Master of Science (M.Sc) in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from SU between 2011 and 2012, followed by his Master of Engineering (M.Eng) in Mechanical Engineering from 2016 until 2020. Throughout his studies, Kearney was involved in various projects that would set the foundation for his current role as CEO of CubeSpace. Adding to his formal education, he completed an online course in Quantum Mechanics and Quantum Computation through Coursera at Berkeley University.
Kearney’s strong academic background was necessary for the role he now plays in this industry. However, it was his involvement with community initiatives that would strengthen his business acumen. Kearney has held directorship roles at the South African Olive Association as well as the SU LaunchLab and these positions have helped smoothen the transition from academic to CEO. Although Kearney is still involved in academic research, his focus is to fulfill the CubeSpace vision to someday have their components on every satellite in space. Currently, CubeSpace controls over 300 satellites and has been endorsed by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), further cementing their position as market leaders in their space. Their reputation has earned them their involvement in important projects such as the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Lunar rover and their inclusion in NASA’s State-of-the-Art Small Spacecraft Technology report.
Kearney is passionate about advancing the space industry for the benefit of earth. He hopes to achieve this not just through the inventions of components but by continuously encouraging the integration of business and engineering through entrepreneurship.
“I am a people-focused person who cares deeply for my team and partners. I enjoy learning new skills and technologies, and I continuously seek new opportunities and challenges to expand my knowledge and network, says Kearney.”
For more information about CubeSpace, click here.