Tag: The Exploration Company
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The Exploration Company Tests Nyx Capsule Ahead of 2028 Mission
How Did The Exploration Company’s Nyx Capsule Perform in Drop Tests? The Exploration Company successfully completed a drop test of its Nyx cargo capsule, validating critical parachute systems ahead of a planned 2028 orbital demonstration mission. The test represents a key milestone for the European space logistics startup as it races to capture cargo delivery…
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BioOrbit Raises £9.8 Million Seed Funding to Advance Space-Based Drug Manufacturing
London-based BioOrbit said it has raised £9.8 million ($11.4 million) in a seed funding round to accelerate its space-based pharmaceutical manufacturing technology and expand operations into the United States. The round was co-led by LocalGlobe and BREEGA, with participation from Auxxo, Seedcamp, Type One Ventures, 7percent Ventures, and undisclosed angel investors. Founded in 2023, BioOrbit…
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Exploration Company Tests Nyx Capsule Splashdown Ahead of ISS Cargo Plans
European space logistics startup The Exploration Company has completed a controlled splashdown test of a scaled prototype of its Nyx reusable spacecraft, marking a key step toward its planned cargo missions to low Earth orbit. Founded in 2021, the company is developing Nyx as a reusable capsule designed initially to transport cargo to and from…
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Orbex’s Danish Unit to File for Bankruptcy as Operations Wind Down
Orbex’s Danish subsidiary, Orbital Express Launch ApS, is set to file for bankruptcy after closing its facilities on Jan. 20, resulting in the loss of around 90 jobs, according to people familiar with the matter. UK-based small-launch developer Orbex established the Danish business in October 2016. Based in Copenhagen, Orbital Express Launch ApS supported group-wide…
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UK Rocket Builder Orbex in Talks to Sell Business to The Exploration Company
UK-based rocket manufacturer Orbex said it has signed a letter of intent to sell its business to European space logistics startup The Exploration Company, marking a potential consolidation move within Europe’s emerging launch sector. Orbex confirmed on Jan. 21 that negotiations have begun but said all details of the proposed transaction remain confidential. The company…
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ESA Revises ISS Barter Plan With NASA After Cancelling Cargo Transport Call
The European Space Agency (ESA) has outlined a revised barter arrangement with the United States that would allow it to meet its International Space Station (ISS) cost-sharing obligations without commissioning a dedicated commercial cargo delivery mission, senior officials said this month. The move follows ESA’s decision in December to cancel a call for proposals for…
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The Exploration Company Opens New Facility in France to Advance Development of Nyx Spacecraft
The Exploration Company has inaugurated a new facility in Le Haillan, France, less than a month after opening its new headquarters in Germany. The in-space logistics startup is developing Nyx, a modular capsule intended for cargo transport to and from the International Space Station (ISS), with future variants planned for lunar surface deliveries and crewed…
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The Exploration Company Acquires Germany’s Thrustworks to Boost Manufacturing Capacity
The Exploration Company has acquired German additive manufacturing firm Thrustworks, strengthening its production capabilities and broadening its commercial activities as it progresses toward the planned 2028 debut of its modular spacecraft, the company said on Monday. Thrustworks, founded in 2023, specialises in high-performance metal components for space and defence applications. The company provides end-to-end manufacturing…
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Exploration Company Completes Debris-Shield Tests for Nyx Spacecraft Ahead of 2028 Debut
European space logistics startup The Exploration Company said it has completed the first test campaign of the micrometeoroid and orbital debris (MMOD) shielding for its Nyx spacecraft, a modular vehicle scheduled to make its debut in 2028. The tests were performed under the European Space Agency’s (ESA) LEO Cargo Return Services initiative, which is funding…
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SpaceX launches Falcon 9 rocket on Transporter-14 smallsat rideshare mission
A collection of 70 payloads manifested onto SpaceX’s Transporter-14 mission. Image: SpaceX Update June 23, 2:23 p.m. EDT: SpaceX pushed back the launch time. SpaceX completed its fourth launch of the year as part of its dedicated smallsat rideshare program, which is set to liftoff from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California on Monday. SpaceX…