Space startup raises millions to make 'impossible' drugs that Earth's gravity won't allow

Varda Space Industries has raised $187 million in funding to develop drugs in microgravity. The company is the first to process materials in orbit outside the International Space Station. The technology aims to create "novel drug formulations that would otherwise be impossible" on Earth.

This brings Varda's total funding to $329 million, with contributions from notable investors like Peter Thiel. Varda plans to continue expanding its operations to mass-produce drugs in space. The company's current vehicles can return significant amounts of pharmaceuticals for production needs. Varda recently launched its fourth mission, marking a significant milestone for commercial space operations.