LEADING orbital launch services company, Orbex has signed the framework contract for the Flight Ticket Initiative, a program organized by the European Commission and the European Space Agency (ESA). 

This initiative provides co-funding of launch opportunities to European companies and organisations to fly their services and test new satellite technologies in orbit.

Orbex is the only UK supplier, and only launch services provider with its own spaceport, to be selected for the Flight Ticket Initiative. The Flight Ticket Initiative will supply payloads for Orbex’s Prime rocket when undergoing test phases, demonstrating the UK start-up as a trusted supplier in the orbital services sector. The initiative will help Orbex achieve its goal of making the UK a central hub for European space flight.

The contract, which has now been signed will allow Orbex to compete for specific work orders up to a ceiling of €5 million for identified launch service needs.  

Phil Chambers, CEO of Orbex, stated: “Achieving selection for the ESA Flight Ticket Initiative is a significant milestone for Orbex as we continue our journey to achieving sustainable space launch. Our distinction as the sole UK-based company chosen for this initiative underpins our leadership in pioneering low carbon spaceflight operations propelling the UK to the forefront of the global space industry.”

Lucía Linares, head of strategy at ESA’s Space Transportation directorate, said: “The Flight Ticket Initiative is an important moment for European space transport. ESA and the EU are joining forces to stimulate European competitiveness, accelerate the development of new space transport services, and support the growth of the European space economy.

I can’t wait to see new European commercial space transport capabilities soar.”