UK Government Invests £20 Million in Orbex to Enhance Domestic Space Launch Capabilities

In a landmark move to strengthen the United Kingdom's position in the global space industry, the UK Government has committed £20 million to spaceflight company Orbex. This investment marks the government's first direct equity stake in a UK-based rocket launch provider and is a significant component of Orbex's Series D funding round, which has amassed a total of £40 million to date.

Advancing UK Space Ambitions

This strategic investment aligns with the UK's broader objective to become a leading hub for small satellite launches in Europe. By supporting Orbex, the government aims to foster the development of indigenous rocket technology, enabling regular orbital launches from British soil. This initiative is anticipated to generate highly skilled jobs, attract further investment, and inspire the next generation of space professionals.

Orbex's Prime Rocket

Central to Orbex's endeavors is the 'Prime' rocket, a 19-meter-long, two-stage launch vehicle designed to transport small satellites into Low Earth Orbit (LEO). Key features of the Prime rocket include:

• Lightweight Design: Constructed using advanced composite materials, the rocket is designed to be reusable, with components that either burn up harmlessly upon re-entry or are recovered and reused.

• 3D-Printed Engines: The rocket utilizes lightweight, high-performance 3D-printed engines, uniquely manufactured in a single piece without joins, enhancing structural integrity and performance.

• Eco-Friendly Propulsion: The Prime rocket is powered by bio-propane, a renewable fuel that significantly reduces carbon emissions compared to traditional rocket fuels, underscoring Orbex's commitment to sustainable space exploration.

• Innovative Systems: Features such as a redundant ignition system with no moving parts or electrics for on-orbit restart and circularization, and independent low-temperature turbo-pumps driving each stage 1 engine, contribute to the rocket's advanced capabilities.

Launch Plans and Infrastructure

Orbex plans to conduct its initial launch operations from SaxaVord Spaceport in the Shetland Islands. This location positions the UK as a competitive destination for commercial satellite launches, offering a strategic northern latitude advantageous for certain orbital trajectories. The inaugural launch of the Prime rocket is anticipated towards the end of 2025.

Government and Industry Perspectives

Technology Secretary Peter Kyle emphasized the significance of this investment, stating that it would help the UK become a leading hub for small satellite launches in Europe. He highlighted the potential for creating highly skilled jobs, attracting investment, and inspiring future space professionals.

Orbex CEO Phillip Chambers welcomed the government's support, noting that it not only enables the company's first launch but also paves the way for the development of larger rockets to compete in the European Launcher Challenge.

Collaborative Investment Efforts

In addition to government funding, Orbex's Series D round has attracted investments from entities such as the Export & Investment Fund of Denmark (EIFO), venture capital firm Octopus Ventures, and private investor Sohaib Abbasi. With the fundraising round still open, Orbex is actively seeking additional investors to support its future growth.

Conclusion

The UK Government's £20 million investment in Orbex signifies a pivotal step in advancing the nation's space launch capabilities. By fostering homegrown rocket technology and supporting companies like Orbex, the UK is poised to become a significant player in the European space sector, driving innovation, economic growth, and inspiring future generations in the field of space exploration.