UK’s Orbex and Germany’s Exolaunch sign strategic partnership agreement in launch services

Orbex has announced a strategic five-year partnership with Exolaunch, a global leader in launch services, mission management, deployment systems and integration services for small satellites.

The agreement will see Orbex and Exolaunch collaborate to provide end-to-end launch services for small satellites.  Exolaunch will utilise launch capacity and integrate customer payloads with Orbex’s launch vehicles, Prime and the new medium-sized launcher, Proxima, while Orbex will benefit from Exolaunch’s deployment systems, rideshare structures and global market outreach.

In addition, Orbex will work with Exolaunch on future Orbex Prime and Proxima missions to address the growing demand for micro and cube satellite launch services.

Exolaunch will provide its flight-proven separation systems for cubesats and microsatellites, with its hardware positioned as the deployment solution for Orbex customers across dedicated and rideshare missions.

The partnership also includes the use of Exolaunch’s EXOtube, a modular and scalable launch platform designed to optimize satellite constellations’ launch configurations, increase mission flexibility, and enhance vehicle utilisation. The teams will further collaborate on launch campaign planning, satellite      integration, and on-site execution support.

Phil Chambers, CEO of Orbex, said: “This is a truly exciting partnership that marks a significant milestone as we secure industry backing to accelerate the development of our new Proxima launch vehicle. It’s a clear signal of the growing demand for flexible and reliable launch services across Europe.

“With Exolaunch’s expertise in mission management and deployment, and our sustainable and flexible launch capabilities, we’re well-positioned to support the evolving needs of satellite operators. Together, we’re helping make access to space more efficient and scalable.”

“Orbex brings a compelling mix of innovation and agility to Europe’s growing launch ecosystem, with both Prime and the upcoming Proxima launch vehicles”, said Dr. Robert Sproles, CEO of Exolaunch. “We are proud of this partnership and expect it to expand fast and reliable launch access in the UK and beyond.”

“Orbex’s launchers are a strong addition to our roster of launch options and this collaboration strengthens our ability to serve customers looking for dedicated, responsive and sustainable access to orbit. It’s an exciting step forward as more operators become available to support our European and global satellite customers.”