Picastro image-sharing platform secures funding

An innovative image-sharing platform designed specifically for astronomers and astrophotographers has been launched by Ayrshire entrepreneur Tom McCrorie, following a significant investment.

Named Picastro, the platform is the brainchild of McCrorie, who has blended his passion for astrophotography with his expertise in creative design. After securing initial funding from Interface, Tom has now obtained a substantial six-figure investment from a Middle Eastern investor interested in astronomical observatories. He is also in discussions with potential investors globally.

Picastro image-sharing platform secures major investment

Tom is exploring partnerships with camera and telescope manufacturers to integrate Picastro into new equipment. The recent funding will be used to enhance the platform and app, as well as to build a team of community managers, potentially from various parts of the world.

Targeting over 500,000 subscribers in its first year, Tom envisions a global audience in the tens of millions, encompassing three main user groups: beginners using smartphone cameras, users with entry-level smart telescopes, and experienced astrophotographers.

The idea for Picastro originated when Tom received a telescope as a birthday gift. This new passion, combined with his technical and creative skills, led him to publish a book of lunar images that was well-received within the astronomical community. Recognizing the potential for a dedicated platform, Tom developed Picastro to allow astronomers and astrophotographers to share high-resolution images without the intrusion of ads or algorithm-driven content.

The platform emphasizes community, with members paying an annual subscription to access high-quality images and interact with others. Tom commented, "Picastro brings together the best elements of major social platforms but is specifically tailored for the astronomy and astrophotography community, catering to all skill levels."

Legal experts from Harper Macleod, including partner Paula Skinner, advised Tom on the investment. Skinner noted, "Tom's blend of social media savvy and astrophotography passion has led to a platform with global appeal, tapping into Scotland’s growing prominence in the space sector and leveraging a strong network to attract international investors and subscribers."