Orbex Selected for European Commission and ESA’s Flight Ticket Initiative
Orbex Signs Contract for European Commission and ESA’s Flight Ticket Initiative
Orbex, a leading orbital launch services company, has recently signed a framework contract for the Flight Ticket Initiative, a program organized by the European Commission and the European Space Agency (ESA). The initiative aims to provide co-funding for launch opportunities to European companies and organizations looking to test new satellite technologies in orbit.
Being the only UK supplier and launch services provider with its own spaceport to be selected for the Flight Ticket Initiative, Orbex is set to play a significant role in the program. As part of the initiative, payloads for Orbex’s Prime rocket will be provided during test phases, showcasing the UK start-up as a trusted supplier in the orbital services sector and helping in making the UK a central hub for European space flight.
The recently signed contract will allow Orbex to compete for specific work orders with a ceiling of €5 million for identified launch service needs. Phil Chambers, CEO of Orbex, expressed his excitement about being selected for the initiative, highlighting how it marks a significant milestone for the company. He emphasized Orbex’s commitment to sustainable space launch operations and its leadership in pioneering low carbon spaceflight.
Lucía Linares, head of strategy at ESA’s Space Transportation directorate, also shared her enthusiasm for the Flight Ticket Initiative, stating that it is an important moment for European space transport. By collaborating with the EU, ESA aims to stimulate European competitiveness, accelerate the development of new space transport services, and support the growth of the European space economy.
The signing of the framework contract for the Flight Ticket Initiative is a major achievement for Orbex and further solidifies its position as a key player in the space industry. With this initiative, Orbex is aligned with European efforts to advance commercial space transport capabilities, setting the stage for exciting developments in the future.