Startup Varda Space Industries snags former Mattel plant in El Segundo - Los Angeles Times

Los Angeles Times

by Roger Vincent, Laurence Darmiento

March 4, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Varda Space Industries, a startup specializing in microgravity pharmaceutical production, has secured a major expansion by leasing a 205,443-square-foot former Mattel toy manufacturing plant in El Segundo, California. The facility, located on Mariposa Avenue, will serve as an extension of Varda’s current headquarters and allow the company to significantly scale up its spacecraft manufacturing capabilities. This move comes as part of Varda’s growing presence in Southern California’s aerospace corridor, a region known for fostering innovation and startups like SpaceX. The plant, originally built in the 1940s as an aircraft facility, has a rich history tied to aerospace innovation. Its proximity to major defense contractors, Los Angeles Air Force Base, and the Space Systems Command makes it a strategic location for Varda’s operations. The company, co-founded by former SpaceX avionics engineer Will Bruey, focuses on developing automated labs that operate in microgravity to produce purer molecular crystals for pharmaceuticals and military applications. These labs are launched into space aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rockets, with Varda having more than 10 missions scheduled through 2028. The lease marks a significant milestone for Varda, as it will enable the company to expand its production capabilities while staying in El Segundo—a hub for aerospace innovation. The facility is large enough to accommodate Varda’s growing operations, including the construction of new production and assembly lines over the next year. By late 2024, Varda expects to have built 10 additional spacecraft, further solidifying its position as a leader in the emerging space manufacturing sector. This expansion underscores El Segundo’s status as a key player in Southern California’s booming aerospace industry. With its proximity to major contractors and government installations, the city has become a hotspot for startups and established companies alike. Varda’s decision to remain in El Segundo highlights the region’s ability to support growing businesses while maintaining ties to its aerospace legacy. The move also reflects the broader shift in Southern California’s economy, as traditional industries like toy manufacturing give way to cutting-edge space innovation. For readers interested in aerospace, business growth, and technological advancements, Varda Space Industries

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Originally published on Los Angeles Times on 3/4/2026