Orbex Gets a Funding Boost from ESA 

A rendering of an Orbex Prime launch from Sutherland Spaceport. Photo: Orbex

Orbex has secured another 3.3 million pounds ($4.14 million) in funding, the company announced Dec. 13. The funding is from the UK Space Agency (UKSA) as part of the European Space Agency’s (ESA) ‘Boost!’ initiative. The initiative, which is part of ESA’s Commercial Space Transportation Services and Support program, is designed to further the development of world-leading space launch technologies.

Orbex will use the funding to undertake activities to build the Launch Complex at Sutherland Spaceport, located on the north coast of Scotland. The spaceport is being designed with sustainability in mind and is intended to be the first spaceport globally to be carbon-neutral in its construction and operation. The site will see the launch of up to 12 orbital rockets per year, with several commercial launch contracts with satellite manufacturers already secured.

“Receiving this funding from the UKSA as part the ESA’s Boost! program is not only very welcome, it’s further validation of our commitment to delivering low-carbon, high-performance space launch services in a way that respects the environment. The development of the Ultra-Green Launch Complex at Sutherland Spaceport is a critical step this journey, and this support will enable us to continue working toward our ultimate goal of making the UK a central hub for European space flight,” Martin Coates, CEO of Orbex, said in a statement.