Varda Space Industries to Launch First Space Factory on SpaceX Falcon 9

Varda Space Industries' Orbital Manufacturing Initiative

Varda Space Industries, a company focused on establishing manufacturing capabilities in the space environment, is scheduled to launch its inaugural spacecraft into orbit utilizing a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket during 2023.

Spacecraft Construction and Components

Interestingly, the construction of this initial spacecraft will be undertaken not by SpaceX, but by its competitor, Rocket Lab. Rocket Lab has been contracted to produce two additional space vehicles for Varda as well.

These three vehicles will integrate two distinct modules developed by Varda: a module dedicated to manufacturing in microgravity and a capsule designed for safe reentry into Earth’s atmosphere.

Operational Parameters and Material Retrieval

Each spacecraft is anticipated to operate in orbit for roughly three months. Following this period, the reentry module will return to Earth carrying approximately 40 to 60 kilograms of materials that have been manufactured in space.

The Potential of Microgravity Manufacturing

Varda aims to capitalize on the unique advantages offered by microgravity – a condition readily achievable for extended durations in space. This environment enables the creation of innovative materials, such as bioprinted organs and highly specialized semiconductors.

The company believes that a substantial market exists for these space-manufactured materials, justifying the investment in this ambitious endeavor.

Rapid Development and Funding

Founded less than a year ago by former SpaceX employee Will Bruey and Founders Fund principal Delian Asparouhov, the Torrance, California-based startup has experienced rapid growth.

Varda secured $42 million in Series A funding in July and is pursuing an aggressive launch timeline, with two launches planned for 2023 and a further launch scheduled for 2024.

Leveraging Rideshare Programs for Cost Efficiency

The spacecraft will be deployed as part of a SpaceX Falcon 9 rideshare mission. This program offers a cost-effective solution for accessing space by allowing multiple customers to share the expenses of a single launch.

SpaceX advertises the potential to reduce launch costs to as little as $1 million for a customer seeking to deliver up to 200 kilograms of payload to a sun-synchronous orbit.