Synnax: Building Mission-Critical Software for Aerospace and Beyond
How a startup is replacing outdated systems in rocket engine testing with real-time data control.
1The problem with legacy systems
Synnax addresses the aerospace industry's reliance on outdated tools from the 1980s. Current systems dump sensor data into unorganized 20-30TB files named only by date, leading to slow analysis and costly mistakes. CEO Emiliano Bonilla witnessed millions lost and hardware destroyed due to these inefficiencies during his time at Firefly Aerospace. The lack of real-time data review creates dangerous delays in mission-critical environments.
2Synnax's core solution
The platform replaces spreadsheets and unstructured file dumps with real-time hardware control and data organization. Designed for high-stakes scenarios like rocket engine testing, it tightens the loop between data collection and action. The system includes Arc, a purpose-built programming language developed when Excel and Python proved inadequate. Synnax now handles hundreds of sensors during engine tests, providing immediate data access that legacy systems can't match.
3Building Arc language
The team created their own real-time programming language in six months after existing options failed. Excel couldn't handle complex logic, while Python lacked the speed and safety for engine control. Arc offers simpler syntax than Python with dramatically better developer experience. Unlike file-based systems requiring USB transfers for error checking, Arc provides instant typo detection within milliseconds during development.
4Mission-critical challenges
Developing software where milliseconds matter requires balancing speed and quality differently than typical apps. While most applications can survive brief downtime, Synnax timing errors can destroy multi-million dollar hardware. Engineers work under intense pressure at test sites, with Bonilla personally overseeing operations. The stakes create constant tension between rapid iteration and absolute reliability requirements.
5Development tools stack
The team builds Synnax using JetBrains IDEs (GoLand, CLion, PyCharm) combined with Claude AI assistance. They value JetBrains' debuggers for requiring minimal configuration compared to alternatives. The IDE's merge conflict resolution and near-instant file saving in large codebases significantly improve workflow. This toolchain supports development of both the core platform and Arc language simultaneously.
6Expanding beyond aerospace
While remaining focused on aerospace applications, Synnax is expanding into quantum computing cryogenic control, oil and gas, and manufacturing. The company approaches new markets strategically rather than attempting broad coverage. One ambitious goal involves controlling entire production lines. The team carefully evaluates each sector's requirements before adapting their technology.
7Automated data review
Future development focuses on enhancing Arc with automated anomaly detection. Human operators can only process so much real-time data during critical operations. The planned system will automatically flag and correct issues, reducing reliance on manual monitoring. This represents the next evolution in Synnax's mission to eliminate delays between data collection and action.
8Product philosophy
Bonilla believes successful tools win through accumulated small improvements rather than single breakthroughs. Synnax embodies this philosophy by incrementally solving specific pain points in hardware testing workflows. This approach mirrors Bonilla's preference for development tools that consistently make his team's daily work slightly better. The company applies similar thinking to both product development and market expansion strategies.