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From Google Lab to $1.3 Billion Unicorn - Aalyria Raises $100 Million for Laser-Based Space Networks Not every startup begins in a garage. Some emerge from the world's largest technology companies before finding their way into venture. That's Aalyria's journey - a deep-tech company that spun out from over a decade of Alphabet Inc. research in September 2022. In February 2026, Aalyria raised $100 million in Series B led by Battery Ventures and J2 Ventures with DYNE Ventures, pushing its valuation to $1.3 billion. For VCs watching the global satellite communications market - projected to grow from $98.3 billion in 2025 to $223 billion by 2033 at 11% CAGR - this represents how corporate spinouts accelerate into category-defining infrastructure plays. Founded by CEO Chris Taylor and CTO Brian Barritt, Aalyria develops laser-based communication networks between satellites, aircraft, and ground stations. The company's two products - Spacetime (network orchestration software) and Tightbeam (laser hardware) - enable faster data transmission across global networks. Originally built within Google's Project Loon and Project Taara, the technology coordinates complex connectivity systems in space as satellite networks expand worldwide. Battery Ventures co-led (General Partner Michael Brown joined Aalyria's board), J2 Ventures co-led, and DYNE Ventures participated. This Series B brings total raised to $135 million, funding expansion from 90 employees by 33% while scaling commercial deployments with Telesat, NASA - National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Airbus, U.S. Air Force, and European Space Agency. For venture investors, Aalyria highlights the deep-tech infrastructure opportunity. Corporate spinouts often arrive with years of validated R&D, proven technology, experienced teams, and initial customer traction - reducing technical risk while accessing massive markets. As global demand grows for satellite connectivity and defense communications (satellite internet alone: $14.6B in 2025 → $33.4B by 2030 at 18.1% CAGR), companies building orchestration and laser communication systems attract significant capital. Congratulations to Chris Taylor, Brian Barritt, and the Aalyria team. Recognition to Michael Brown and Battery Ventures, J2 Ventures, DYNE Ventures, and Alphabet for backing the future of space-based connectivity infrastructure. The VC Fellowship teaches you corporate spinout investing, deep-tech infrastructure plays, and how to evaluate technical risk in frontier markets. Applications open. Apply Now:- https://lnkd.in/gsNZQFvH #venturecapital #deeptech #funding #investment #google