THE LAUNCH PAD
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The European Space Agency (ESA) is doubling down on its commitment to fostering Europe’s commercial launch sector, announcing an additional €44.22 million ($46.7 million) in funding for four launch vehicle startups. The funding, part of ESA’s “Boost!” program, aims to advance the testing of launch vehicles from HyImpulse, Isar Aerospace, Orbex, and Rocket Factory Augsburg (RFA).
The Exploration Company has successfully raised $160 million in a Series B funding round to bolster the development of its Nyx spacecraft, designed for cargo transportation to support future commercial space stations.
Commercial space station developer Vast Space has entered into a agreement with the Czech Republic to explore a future mission by a Czech astronaut aboard a Vast mission.
Preparations are underway for Ariane 6's second flight and inaugural commercial mission, which will now launch no earlier than mid-February. Originally scheduled for December, the mission has been delayed to the first quarter of 2025 due to ongoing preparations and adjustments.
One year after its Miura 1 suborbital rocket flight, the company is positioning itself as a leader in space transportation with the introduction of larger, reusable rockets like Miura Next and Europe’s first private crewed spacecraft, Lince.
The French Defense Innovation Agency (DGA) and the Directorate General of Armaments (DGA) unveiled their latest initiative aimed at strengthening space surveillance and defense capabilities at the recent Space Defense and Security Summit.
RFA has announced the loss of their first stage during a hot first test at their launch site at SaxaVord Spaceport.
Yahsat, the United Arab Emirates’ leading satellite operator has reported a mixed financial performance for the first half of 2024.
New Frontier Aerospace, a space transportation startup with ambitious plans for high-speed point-to-point travel has begun testing the engine that will power their innovative vehicle.
SaxaVord Spaceport in the Shetland Islands is on the verge of making history with the first vertical orbital launch from U.K. soil with imminent receipt of final licenses from U.K. regulators.
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