Phantom Space Acquires StratSpace - Expanding Space Services

Growing Demand Fuels Phantom Space Corporation's Expansion

As 2021 progresses with a projected record number of space launches, the demand for space access continues to increase rapidly. Phantom Space Corporation is positioning itself to meet this demand through innovative, large-scale manufacturing processes previously unseen within the aerospace sector. The company recently announced the acquisition of StratSpace, a firm specializing in the design and management of satellite programs, on Tuesday.

A Step Towards Comprehensive Space Services

This acquisition represents a pivotal move in Phantom Space’s strategy to establish a complete, end-to-end space transportation and manufacturing service. According to Phantom Space co-founder Michal Prywata, speaking with TechCrunch, StratSpace possesses essential expertise and resources.

“StratSpace brings with it comprehensive knowledge, all the necessary tools, satellite frameworks, and communication infrastructure required for spacecraft operation,” Prywata explained. “This is fundamentally important as we aim to be among the first companies offering a complete service spectrum, from initial concept to final deployment.” The financial details of the acquisition were not disclosed by the company.

Reducing the Cost of Space Access

Phantom Space believes that a combination of efficient, mass-produced rocket manufacturing and strategic acquisitions will significantly lower the cost of accessing space. The company intends to offer dedicated launches for $4 million, capable of delivering up to 450 kilograms to low Earth orbit.

Prywata anticipates a substantial launch cadence, stating, “We envision conducting hundreds, potentially even thousands, of launches annually.” He further noted, “The current market demonstrably supports hundreds of launches each year.”

Strategic Outsourcing and Acquisitions

Despite these ambitious goals, Phantom Space has yet to conduct a flight test of its rocket designs. To accelerate development, the company is outsourcing the production of complex components, such as engines and avionics systems, which typically require years of independent development.

“We are actively pursuing acquisitions to integrate crucial technologies and companies under a single umbrella, creating a comprehensive infrastructure capable of transforming ideas into reality in space,” Prywata stated. This encompasses satellite construction, system integration, launch services, and data transmission. “Our aim is to provide a full-service solution, assisting companies with space-based applications by offering all the necessary components for successful deployment.”

Daytona and Laguna Rockets

Phantom Space plans to initiate the first launch of its two-stage Daytona rocket in the first quarter of 2023, with stage-level testing scheduled to begin in early 2022. The Daytona, designated as the company’s primary launch vehicle, stands 61 feet tall and can deliver a payload of 450 kilograms to LEO utilizing eight engines.

While the Daytona is designed for single use, the company intends to implement reusability features in its larger Laguna rocket model.

Expanding Launch Capabilities

The company has secured a right of entry for Space Launch Complex 5 at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, which is expected to host its initial launches. Additionally, Phantom Space has established an agreement with the Pacific Spaceport Complex in Alaska, a location also utilized by Astra, and is exploring potential launch agreements with Cape Canaveral Spaceport in Florida.

Addressing Spaceport Capacity

However, even with successful flight testing, achieving hundreds or thousands of launches annually remains challenging due to the limited number of available spaceports within the United States.

“Relying solely on U.S. launch sites is insufficient to reach hundreds of launches per year,” Prywata acknowledged. Consequently, the company is also evaluating potential locations in northern Sweden, northern Australia, and Brazil. Furthermore, they are engaging with the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration to obtain licenses for spaceports dedicated to horizontal launch systems, allowing for vertical launch capabilities.

A Series of Strategic Acquisitions

Prywata confirmed that the acquisition of StratSpace is merely the first in a series of planned acquisitions. “We are a relatively small company focused on rapid growth,” he said. “Therefore, we are prioritizing strategic acquisitions, particularly those that are key to enabling our overarching strategy.”