History

Orbex timeline

2015

Orbex founded

2016

Seed funding

Opened design facility in Denmark

H2020 SME Instrument Phase 1 award

2017

First engine test

UKSA National Space Technology Avionics award

2018

Series A funding

Awarded UKSA Satellite Launch Programme funding

Awarded UKSA Spaceport funding

Selected as preferred ESA microlauncher project

Signed Deimos as customer and partner

2019

Opened headquarters and production facility in Forres, Scotland

Unveiled world’s largest 3D printed rocket engine

Announced Astrocast as customer

Unveiled Stage 2 rocket prototype

Announced SSTL as customer

Signed new customer In-Space and launch agreements with ISL at Utah Small Sat Conference

1st UK space firm to win H2020 SME Instrument Ph. 2

ESA re-usability contract awarded

New engine testing site opens in Denmark

New carbon fibre production facilities installed

2020

Spaceport planning application submitted

Series B funding

2021

Second production facility opens in Forres

New integrated testing facility opens at Kinloss

2022

Launch licence application submitted

1st launch platform in 50 years delivered to Kinloss testing facility

Orbex Prime rocket revealed

Series C Funding

Orbex to lead construction and operation of Sutherland Spaceport

2023

Groundbreaking at Sutherland Spaceport

Arianespace and Orbex sign MOU to explore possible joint offering for small satellite customers

Orbex awarded £3.3 million in funding from the UKSA as part of the ESA’s “Boost!” initiative

2024

Selected for European Commission and ESA's new Flight Ticket Initiative

Secures patents for Coaxial Rocket Fuel Tanks and 'Petal Fold' Reusable Rocket Technology

£16.7m investment confirmed for rocket 'ramp up' period

Innovation Fund Denmark invest DKK 23 million in Danish design and production of space rockets

Orbex opens London office and expands footprint further in Forres and Copenhagen

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