Max Q: Space Industry News & Analysis

Space Industry Updates: A Week of Launches

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Recent Launch Activity

The space industry is experiencing a surge in launch activity. A new company preparing for its initial public launch is nearing its debut.

Conversely, a privately funded launch provider has announced a postponement of its inaugural flight. The specific date for the first flight has been shifted.

Green Light for a New Launcher

Positive developments are also occurring. Another launch system has received official approval to proceed with its first launch attempt.

This week’s space news is dominated by announcements surrounding launch schedules and preparations. It represents a dynamic period for the industry.

Looking Ahead

The coming weeks promise further developments as these companies work towards their launch goals. Continued monitoring of these events will provide valuable insights into the evolving space landscape.

Virgin Orbit to Go Public via $3.2 Billion SPAC Deal

Image Credits: Virgin Orbit

The last twelve months have witnessed a significant surge in public offerings for companies in the space industry, largely driven by the increasing utilization of Special Purpose Acquisition Companies (SPACs) as a route to the stock market.

Following the lead of Virgin Galactic, Richard Branson’s second space venture, Virgin Orbit, is now pursuing a similar path to become a publicly traded entity.

This merger is projected to provide Virgin Orbit with approximately $483 million in readily available capital.

While SPACs often warrant caution for both individual investors and market analysts, Virgin Orbit demonstrates promising underlying business principles.

The company has successfully established itself as an operational launch services provider, achieving orbital flight for the first time in January.

Furthermore, Virgin Orbit completed its inaugural commercial mission, carrying payloads for paying clients, in June.

Unlike Virgin Galactic, Virgin Orbit specializes in launching small satellite payloads from a uniquely adapted commercial aircraft at high altitudes.

Details of the Merger

The deal involves a merger with NextGen Acquisition Corp II, a SPAC formed specifically to identify and acquire a business in the space sector.

The combined company will trade on the Nasdaq under the ticker symbol STNG.

Existing Virgin Orbit shareholders will retain approximately 63% ownership of the combined entity.

Future Prospects

Virgin Orbit intends to leverage the funds raised through the SPAC merger to accelerate its growth and expand its launch capabilities.

This includes increasing the frequency of launches and developing new technologies to serve a wider range of customers.

The company is targeting a substantial portion of the rapidly expanding small satellite launch market.

• The global small satellite launch services market is projected to experience significant growth in the coming years.
• Virgin Orbit is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend with its flexible and cost-effective launch solutions.

The successful completion of this transaction will mark another milestone in the commercialization of space and further demonstrate the viability of alternative launch methods.

Launch Updates: Relativity Delays, Astra Remains on Schedule

Image Credits: Relativity Space

Recent developments in the emerging launch provider sector indicate a shift in timelines. Relativity Space, a company pioneering 3D-printed rockets, has announced a postponement of its inaugural launch to sometime in 2022.

This delay isn't attributable to a single issue, but rather a series of improvements. These include design enhancements, a revised engine configuration, and the incorporation of advanced construction materials. The ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have also contributed to the adjusted schedule.

Despite the shift, Relativity Space anticipates completing the launch by “early 2022,” suggesting a minimal impact on their overall target timeframe. However, as is typical within the space industry, a firm launch date remains uncertain until actual liftoff occurs.

Meanwhile, Astra, another aspiring launch provider, is maintaining its trajectory toward becoming an operational launch company by the close of 2021.

Although Astra’s previous test launches have demonstrated promising results, the company has yet to successfully reach orbit. They are now focused on achieving this milestone, alongside executing their first commercial launch for a client.

A launch window for this mission is scheduled to open later this week. Following FAA approval received last week, preparations are now underway for the launch attempt.

Commercial Launch Developments in Taiwan and Australia

Image Credits: Australian Space Agency

Tispace, a launch startup originating from Taiwan, has recently received regulatory approval for its inaugural commercial launch.

The company intends to conduct a test flight utilizing its two-stage suborbital rocket.

This launch is planned to occur from a dedicated launch facility located in southern Australia.

Emerging Space Industries

Both Australia and Taiwan are nurturing relatively new, yet demonstrably promising, space industries.

Consequently, this upcoming mission warrants close observation as a firm launch schedule is established later in the year.

The successful execution of this launch would represent a significant milestone for both nations’ space programs.

• The launch will serve as a crucial test for Tispace’s rocket technology.
• It will also validate the capabilities of the Australian launch complex.
• This collaboration highlights the growing international interest in space exploration.

Further details regarding the precise launch date and mission objectives are anticipated as the schedule is finalized.

TC Sessions: Space Returns This December

Following the success of our inaugural space-focused event last year, we are pleased to announce its return in 2021. This year’s conference, TC Sessions: Space, will be held on December 14th and 15th.

The event will again be conducted entirely online, ensuring global accessibility for attendees worldwide. Participation is open to everyone interested in the space industry.

What to Expect at TC Sessions: Space

This virtual conference provides a unique platform for engaging with leading figures in the space technology sector. Attendees can expect insightful discussions and valuable networking opportunities.

• Virtual Format: Participate from anywhere in the world.
• Expert Speakers: Hear from innovators and thought leaders.
• Networking: Connect with peers and potential collaborators.

We aim to build upon the momentum of last year’s event, delivering an even more impactful experience for all involved. Don't miss this opportunity to be part of the future of space exploration and commercialization.