I'd like to think my last startup was a breakthrough technology startup. We were building software, not sending things into space, so weren't nearly so capital

I'd like to think my last startup was a breakthrough technology startup. We were building software, not sending things into space, so weren't nearly so capital intensive, but went through several iterations (discovering breakthroughs is research, and research takes time!), had some near-death experiences, and didn't have a compelling product for 5 or so years. However, fundamental advances are incredibly valuable, and things changed quickly once we got there. I think this is a great model for startups, esp. if you have propensity for technology development. However, it can be hard to fund. I agree, the OP seems unrealistic.