Top 25 Orbital Flight Companies
Top 25 Orbital Flight Companies
The orbital flight industry comprises businesses focused on launching payloads into space, primarily via rockets. Companies range from established giants to startups, developing technologies to support satellite deployment, cargo transfer, and research missions. As space becomes more accessible, there's a shift toward sustainability, reflected in the growing number of reusable rockets. Additionally, innovations in space infrastructure are set to redefine future endeavors, with orbital habitats and lunar landers gaining traction. The industry's ongoing evolution highlights a progression towards not just exploration but also commercial viability, which could reshape global communications and research capabilities.
This list includes 25 prominent orbital flight companies, varying in size from small teams to thousands of employees. Each firm finds its stronghold across different geographical locations, with many headquartered in the USA, while others spread across Europe and Asia. Founded between 1980 and 2021, these companies specialize in products ranging from reusable launch vehicles to satellite systems. Their innovative approaches position them uniquely, as they address both governmental and commercial demands in space accessibility, shaping an exciting future for orbital transportation and technology.
Explore further to discover the top orbital flight companies.
Top 25 Orbital Flight Companies
1. SpaceX
- Website: spacex.com
- Ownership type: Private Equity
- Headquarters: Hawthorne, California, United States (USA)
- Employee distribution: United States (USA) 99%, Other 1%
- Latest funding: January 2025
- Founded year: 2002
- Headcount: 1001-5000
- LinkedIn: spacex
SpaceX, officially known as Space Exploration Technologies Corp., is an aerospace manufacturer and space transportation company based in Hawthorne, California. Founded in 2002 by Elon Musk, SpaceX specializes in the design and production of advanced rockets and spacecraft. The company is known for its Falcon 9 and Falcon Heavy rockets, which are designed for a variety of missions, including satellite launches and resupply missions to the International Space Station (ISS). SpaceX's Dragon spacecraft has been pivotal in transporting cargo and crew to the ISS, marking a significant milestone in commercial spaceflight. Additionally, the company is developing the Starship vehicle, aimed at enabling missions to Mars and beyond. SpaceX also operates the Starlink satellite constellation, which aims to provide high-speed internet access globally. With a workforce of over 15,000 employees, SpaceX continues to push the boundaries of space exploration and technology.
2. Blue Origin
- Website: blueorigin.com
- Ownership type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: Kent, Washington, United States (USA)
- Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
- Latest funding: February 2024
- Founded year: 2000
- Headcount: 10001+
- LinkedIn: blue-origin
Blue Origin, founded in 2000 and based in Kent, Washington, is an aerospace manufacturer and launch service provider. The company specializes in developing rockets and spacecraft, with a strong emphasis on reusability and sustainability. Their notable products include the New Shepard, designed for suborbital flights, and the New Glenn, which aims to provide orbital launch services. Blue Origin also offers lunar lander services through its Blue Moon project, targeting both government and commercial customers. The company has a workforce of over 10,000 employees and is backed by venture capital, reflecting its ambitious goals in the space industry. Their focus on reducing the cost of access to space and minimizing environmental impact positions them as a forward-thinking entity in aerospace.
3. Axiom Space
- Website: axiomspace.com
- Ownership type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: Houston, Texas, United States (USA)
- Employee distribution: United States (USA) 99%
- Latest funding: March 2025
- Founded year: 2016
- Headcount: 501-1000
- LinkedIn: axiom-space
Axiom Space, Inc., founded in 2016 and based in Houston, Texas, is a space infrastructure developer that specializes in human spaceflight services and the creation of commercial space stations. The company is actively engaged in missions to the International Space Station (ISS), providing opportunities for private and national astronauts, as well as research organizations to conduct experiments in microgravity. Axiom Space is currently constructing Axiom Station, the world's first commercial space station, which aims to serve as a hub for research, manufacturing, and habitation in low-Earth orbit. Their development of next-generation spacesuits, the AxEMU, further demonstrates their commitment to enhancing human capabilities in space. Axiom Space's strategic partnerships and focus on in-space infrastructure position it as a significant player in the evolving commercial space industry.
4. Sierra Space
- Website: sierraspace.com
- Ownership type: Private Equity
- Headquarters: Louisville, Colorado, United States (USA)
- Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
- Latest funding: Series B, $290.0M, September 2023
- Founded year: 2021
- Headcount: 1001-5000
- LinkedIn: sierraspace
Sierra Space Corporation, founded in 2021 and based in Louisville, Colorado, is an aerospace company specializing in space technologies. The firm is known for its development of the Dream Chaser spaceplane, which is designed for cargo delivery to the International Space Station (ISS). This spaceplane is notable for its ability to land on runways, making it unique among its peers. Sierra Space also focuses on creating commercial space stations, such as the LIFE habitat and Orbital Reef, which aim to expand human presence in space. The company serves both government agencies and commercial entities, providing innovative solutions for space logistics and research. With a workforce of over 1,500 employees, Sierra Space has a significant footprint in the aerospace sector. Their recent funding round raised $290 million in September 2023, reflecting strong investor interest in their projects and technologies.
5. United Launch Alliance (ULA)
- Website: ulalaunch.com
- Ownership type: Private
- Headquarters: Centennial, Colorado, United States (USA)
- Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
- Latest funding: Other (Grant), $25.0M, July 2023
- Founded year: 2006
- Headcount: 1001-5000
- LinkedIn: ula---united-launch-alliance---lockheed-martin-%26-boeing
United Launch Alliance (ULA) is an aerospace company based in Centennial, Colorado, specializing in space launch services. Established in 2006, ULA has become a key provider of launch vehicles, including the Vulcan, Atlas V, Delta IV, and Delta II rockets. The company is known for its commitment to reliability and precision, having successfully completed over 155 missions that support critical national security operations, scientific research, and commercial endeavors. ULA's rockets have placed more than $70 billion worth of satellite assets into orbit, showcasing their significant role in the aerospace industry. Recently, ULA received $25 million in funding in July 2023, which underscores their ongoing efforts to innovate and enhance their launch capabilities. ULA's focus on transforming the future of space launch through affordability and accessibility positions them as a relevant and active player in the orbital flight sector.
6. PLD Space
- Website: pldspace.com
- Ownership type: Corporate
- Headquarters: Elche, Valencian Community, Spain
- Employee distribution: Spain 100%
- Latest funding: Other (Debt), $11.6M, December 2024
- Founded year: 2011
- Headcount: 201-500
- LinkedIn: pld-space
PLD Space, founded in 2011 and based in Elche, Spain, is an aerospace company dedicated to the development of reusable launch vehicles. Their flagship projects, Miura 1 and Miura 5, are designed to provide commercial access to space for small satellites and scientific experiments. The company caters to a range of clients, including educational institutions and research organizations, facilitating their access to space for various applications. PLD Space is also involved in research and technology development in microgravity, which positions them as a key player in the small satellite launch market. Recently, they secured over 11 million euros in funding, reflecting their growth potential and the increasing demand for small payload launch services. Their focus on innovation and sustainability in launch technology underscores their commitment to advancing the aerospace industry.
7. Skyrora Ltd
- Website: skyrora.com
- Ownership type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: Cumbernauld, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)
- Employee distribution: United Kingdom (UK) 86%, Ukraine 14%
- Latest funding: Other (Grant), $3.4M, March 2021
- Founded year: 2017
- Headcount: 51-200
- LinkedIn: skyrora-limited
Skyrora Ltd, based in Cumbernauld, Scotland, is an aerospace technology company that specializes in the development and manufacturing of launch vehicles tailored for small satellites. Founded in 2017, Skyrora aims to meet the increasing demand for efficient access to space by providing customized launch services to satellite operators and organizations. Their product range includes the Skyrora XL, a three-stage rocket designed to place payloads into Sun-Synchronous Orbit, and the Skylark series, which features suborbital launch vehicles for various applications. Skyrora is also committed to sustainability, having developed Ecosene, a rocket fuel derived from recycled plastic. The company has received significant funding, including a grant of approximately £3.4 million in 2021, which supports their innovative projects and growth in the aerospace sector.
8. EXOS Aerospace Systems & Technologies
- Website: exosaero.com
- Ownership type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: Corsicana, Texas, United States (USA)
- Employee distribution: United States (USA) 87%, Cyprus 13%
- Latest funding: $2.0M, July 2022
- Founded year: 2014
- Headcount: 11-50
- LinkedIn: exos-aerospace-systems-%26-technologies
EXOS Aerospace Systems & Technologies, founded in 2014 and based in Corsicana, Texas, specializes in suborbital space access and orbital transfer solutions. The company offers a range of services, including wet leasing reusable rockets and conducting flight campaigns tailored for research and development. Their clientele includes scientists, educators, and commercial satellite operators, all of whom require flexible access to space for various missions. EXOS Aerospace is notable for its innovative approach to sustainable space solutions, utilizing advanced carbon composite tank technologies that have been tested on the Moon. The company has received funding amounting to approximately $2 million as of July 2022, which supports its ongoing projects and expansion efforts. With a focus on affordability and reliability, EXOS Aerospace aims to make space accessible to a broader audience, while also addressing environmental concerns through the use of cleaner fuels. Their operations are streamlined for rapid turnaround, allowing for efficient launch preparations and execution.
9. ArianeGroup
- Website: ariane.group
- Ownership type: Corporate
- Headquarters: Les Mureaux, Île-De-France, France
- Employee distribution: France 85%, Germany 11%, Other 3%
- Latest funding: February 2024
- Founded year: 2015
- Headcount: 5001-10000
- LinkedIn: airbus-safran-launchers
ArianeGroup, founded in 2015 and based in Les Mureaux, France, is an aerospace manufacturer that specializes in space transportation and defense systems. With a workforce of over 6,000 employees, the company plays a crucial role in providing advanced launchers, propulsion systems, and surveillance services. ArianeGroup is known for its development of the Ariane 6, a versatile heavy-lift launcher designed to meet the needs of both institutional and commercial customers. The company also offers propulsion solutions for satellites and spacecraft, ensuring reliable access to space. In addition to its space transportation capabilities, ArianeGroup is involved in defense systems, including hypersonic technologies and space surveillance services. Their Helix space surveillance service is notable for its ability to track and catalog space objects, addressing the growing challenges of space traffic management. ArianeGroup collaborates with various partners and customers, including governments and defense organizations, to enhance security and operational efficiency in space.
10. SolAero by Rocket Lab
- Website: solaerotech.com
- Ownership type: Corporate
- Headquarters: Albuquerque, New Mexico, United States (USA)
- Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
- Latest funding: $80.0M, December 2021
- Founded year: 1998
- Headcount: 201-500
- LinkedIn: solaero-technologies-corp
SolAero by Rocket Lab, based in Albuquerque, New Mexico, is an aerospace company that specializes in satellite launch services and solar solutions tailored for space applications. Founded in 1998, the company has developed a reputation for producing high-efficiency solar cells and panels that power numerous satellites in orbit. With over 1,100 satellites currently utilizing their solar products, SolAero plays a significant role in the space industry. Their vertically integrated manufacturing capabilities enable them to deliver innovative solar solutions for various missions, including Low Earth Orbit (LEO), Medium Earth Orbit (MEO), and Geostationary Orbit (GEO). In 2022, SolAero was acquired by Rocket Lab, a company recognized for its small satellite launch services, which has further enhanced SolAero's capabilities and market presence. The company continues to focus on research and development, ensuring they remain at the forefront of solar technology for space applications.
11. Firefly Aerospace
- Website: fireflyspace.com
- Ownership type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: United States (USA)
- Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
- Latest funding: Series D, $175.0M, November 2024
- Founded year: 2017
- Headcount: 501-1000
- LinkedIn: fireflyspace
Firefly Aerospace is a private aerospace company based in the United States, specializing in the development of small and medium launch vehicles for commercial space transportation. Founded in 2017, the company has quickly established itself as a key player in the industry. Firefly's primary offerings include the Alpha launch vehicle, which is designed for reliable and cost-effective payload delivery to orbit. They are also developing the Blue Ghost lunar lander, aimed at supporting missions to the Moon, and the Elytra orbital vehicle, which provides on-orbit services. Firefly has secured significant contracts with government agencies and private organizations, including multiple agreements for launches with Lockheed Martin and the U.S. Space Force. The company recently raised $175 million in Series D funding, which will support their ongoing projects and expansion efforts. With a workforce of around 727 employees, Firefly Aerospace is committed to advancing space transportation capabilities.
12. Skyroot Aerospace
- Website: skyroot.in
- Ownership type: Private Equity
- Headquarters: Hyderabad, Telangana, India
- Employee distribution: India 100%
- Latest funding: Series C, $27.0M, October 2023
- Founded year: 2018
- Headcount: 201-500
- LinkedIn: skyroot-aerospace
Skyroot Aerospace Private Limited, based in Hyderabad, India, is an aerospace manufacturer and launch service provider that specializes in developing small-lift launch vehicles for the satellite market. Founded in 2018, the company aims to make space access more affordable and reliable, catering primarily to businesses in the aerospace sector that require satellite launch services. Skyroot has made significant strides in the industry, including the successful test of India's first privately developed solid rocket stage and the first private cryogenic engine. Their Vikram series of rockets, designed for various payload capacities and orbital inclinations, showcases their innovative approach to meeting the growing demand for satellite launches. With a team of experienced professionals, many of whom are former ISRO scientists, Skyroot is well-positioned to push the boundaries of technology in the space industry. The company has raised a total of $95.5 million in funding, with the latest round being a Series C funding of approximately $27 million in October 2023, reflecting strong investor interest and support for their mission to open space for all.
13. Orbex
- Website: orbex.space
- Ownership type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: Forres, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)
- Employee distribution: United Kingdom (UK) 61%, Denmark 39%
- Latest funding: Series D, $28.6M, January 2025
- Founded year: 2015
- Headcount: 51-200
- LinkedIn: orbital-express-launch-limited
Orbex, officially known as Orbital Express Launch Ltd., is an aerospace company based in Forres, Scotland, founded in 2015. The firm focuses on the development and launch of small commercial rockets, specifically the Orbex Prime vehicle, which is engineered to serve the small satellite market. Orbex Prime can carry payloads of up to 180 kg into various orbits, including Sun Synchronous Orbit (SSO), making it a versatile option for satellite operators. The company operates from Sutherland Spaceport, the first UK spaceport capable of vertical launches, which emphasizes environmentally friendly practices. Orbex has received significant funding, including a recent Series D round amounting to approximately £28.6 million, indicating strong investor confidence in their business model and technological advancements. Their commitment to sustainability, coupled with a customer-focused approach, positions them as a notable player in the small satellite launch sector.
14. TeamIndus - Axiom Research Labs
- Website: teamindus.in
- Ownership type: Private
- Headquarters: Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
- Employee distribution: India 100%
- Founded year: 2011
- Headcount: 51-200
- LinkedIn: teamindus
TeamIndus - Axiom Research Labs is a Bengaluru-based private company founded in 2011, specializing in space exploration and engineering services. The firm is dedicated to making planetary exploration more accessible through innovative platforms and advanced systems engineering. They provide a range of services, including mobility systems, orbital systems, and comprehensive support for space missions. Their orbital systems are designed for precision delivery of small to medium payloads, catering to a global clientele. TeamIndus employs new methodologies and materials to significantly reduce mission lead times and costs, aiming for a turnaround time of less than 18 months for end-to-end planetary missions. Their commitment to enhancing program management and engineering capabilities positions them as a notable player in the aerospace industry, particularly in the context of orbital flight.
15. Blue Canyon Technologies
- Website: bluecanyontech.com
- Ownership type: Corporate
- Headquarters: Lafayette, Colorado, United States (USA)
- Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
- Latest funding: November 2020
- Founded year: 2008
- Headcount: 201-500
- LinkedIn: blue-canyon-technologies
Blue Canyon Technologies, founded in 2008 and based in Lafayette, Colorado, is an aerospace company that specializes in spacecraft systems and components. The company focuses on microsatellites and cubesats, providing innovative solutions tailored for government, commercial, and academic missions. With a workforce of approximately 377 employees, Blue Canyon has developed a reputation for crafting robust and resilient spacecraft that support a range of missions, including Low Earth Orbit (LEO), Geostationary Orbit (GEO), lunar, and interplanetary endeavors. Their advanced manufacturing capabilities and state-of-the-art testing facilities enable them to deliver high-performance spacecraft systems and components. Recently, Blue Canyon has been selected for multiple contracts with NASA and the U.S. Air Force, further solidifying their position in the industry. Their commitment to cost-effective and reliable spacecraft solutions positions them as a key player in the evolving space sector.
16. Impulse Space
- Website: impulsespace.com
- Ownership type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: Redondo Beach, California, United States (USA)
- Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
- Latest funding: Series B, $150.0M, October 2024
- Founded year: 2021
- Headcount: 51-200
- LinkedIn: impulse-space
Impulse Space, founded in 2021 and based in Redondo Beach, California, is an aerospace company specializing in in-space transportation and payload delivery services. The company has developed innovative vehicles such as Helios and Mira, which are designed to facilitate efficient transportation to various orbits, including Low Earth Orbit (LEO), Medium Earth Orbit (MEO), and Geostationary Orbit (GEO). Impulse Space offers a range of services, including mission design, launch support, and payload hosting, ensuring reliable solutions for satellite deployment and other space missions. The company has made significant strides in the industry, having successfully completed its first orbital mission, LEO Express-1, in November 2023. This mission demonstrated the capabilities of their Mira vehicle, which is designed for orbital transfer and hosting. Impulse Space has also attracted substantial investment, securing $150 million in Series B funding in October 2024, which will support its ongoing development and operational efforts.
17. Isar Aerospace
- Website: isaraerospace.com
- Ownership type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: Ottobrunn, Bavaria, Germany
- Employee distribution: Germany 93%, Sweden 4%, Other 3%
- Latest funding: Series C, $69.6M, June 2024
- Founded year: 2018
- Headcount: 201-500
- LinkedIn: isar-aerospace
Isar Aerospace, based in Ottobrunn, Bavaria, Germany, is an aerospace company that specializes in the development and manufacturing of launch vehicles tailored for small and medium-sized satellites. Founded in 2018, the company aims to provide flexible and cost-effective launch services to both commercial and governmental clients. With a workforce of over 400 employees from various countries, Isar Aerospace emphasizes in-house manufacturing and automation to enhance efficiency and reduce costs. The company has raised significant capital, totaling over $330 million, through multiple funding rounds, including a recent Series C round. This funding supports their ambitious plans to ramp up production and launch capabilities. Isar Aerospace is currently preparing for the inaugural flight of its Spectrum launch vehicle, which is designed to meet the growing demand for satellite deployment. Their operations also include a focus on minimizing environmental impact, aligning with global sustainability goals.
18. D-Orbit
- Website: dorbit.space
- Ownership type: Private Equity
- Headquarters: Fino Mornasco, Lombardy, Italy
- Employee distribution: Italy 90%, Portugal 4%, United Kingdom (UK) 4%, Other 2%
- Latest funding: Other (Grant), December 2024
- Founded year: 2011
- Headcount: 201-500
- LinkedIn: d-orbit
D-Orbit, founded in 2011 and based in Fino Mornasco, Italy, is a private equity-backed company that specializes in space logistics and orbital transportation. With a workforce of approximately 399 employees, D-Orbit has established itself as a key player in the satellite deployment and in-orbit servicing market. The company offers a range of services, including mission control software and advanced satellite operations, aimed at optimizing the lifecycle of satellites. Their proprietary ION Satellite Carrier is a notable innovation, facilitating the deployment of satellites into various orbits while reducing operational timelines significantly. D-Orbit is also recognized for its commitment to sustainability, being the first certified B-Corp space company, which reflects its focus on environmentally friendly practices. The company has successfully completed multiple orbital missions, deploying over 100 satellites and hosting payloads for various clients. D-Orbit's strategic approach to building a space logistics infrastructure positions it to play a vital role in the expanding trillion-dollar space economy.
19. LandSpace
- Website: landspace.com
- Ownership type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: Beijing, Beijing, China
- Employee distribution: China 96%, India 4%
- Latest funding: $123.3M, December 2024
- Founded year: 2015
- Headcount: 201-500
- LinkedIn: landspace-technology
LandSpace, officially known as Blue Arrow Aerospace, is a commercial aerospace company based in Beijing, China. Founded in 2015, the company specializes in the design, development, and manufacturing of launch vehicles, particularly the Zhuque series of rockets. These rockets are notable for their use of liquid oxygen and methane as propellants, which enhances performance and reduces costs. LandSpace aims to provide reliable launch services to satellite operators and commercial space enterprises. The company has made significant progress in its operational capabilities, including successful test flights and the development of reusable rocket technology. As of December 2024, LandSpace has raised over 123 million USD in funding, reflecting strong investor interest in its innovative approach to space transportation. With a workforce of around 500 employees, LandSpace is positioned as a key player in China's burgeoning commercial space industry, contributing to the global shift towards more cost-effective and sustainable space exploration.
20. Beyond Gravity
- Website: beyondgravity.com
- Ownership type: Private
- Headquarters: Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Employee distribution: Switzerland 36%, Sweden 29%, United States (USA) 13%, Other 22%
- Founded year: 2009
- Headcount: 1001-5000
- LinkedIn: beyondgravity
Beyond Gravity, based in Zurich, Switzerland, is a private aerospace company founded in 2009. With a workforce of approximately 1,350 employees, the company specializes in satellite systems, launch vehicles, and electronic solutions. Beyond Gravity has a rich history of delivering products for hundreds of missions over the past four decades, demonstrating a strong commitment to advancing space technology. Their offerings include a wide range of electronic components, satellite structures, and ground support solutions, all designed to meet the rigorous demands of space missions. The company has played a crucial role in significant projects, such as the Ariane 6 rocket and various European navigation satellites. Beyond Gravity also provides innovative services like Space Situational Awareness, which enhances decision-making for satellite operators. Their focus on sustainability and digital transformation further positions them as a forward-thinking entity in the aerospace industry.
21. Kongsberg NanoAvionics
- Website: nanoavionics.com
- Ownership type: Corporate
- Headquarters: Vilnius, Vilnius, Lithuania
- Employee distribution: Lithuania 96%, United Kingdom (UK) 4%
- Latest funding: $65.1M, September 2022
- Founded year: 2014
- Headcount: 201-500
- LinkedIn: nanoavionika-uab
Kongsberg NanoAvionics, founded in 2014 and based in Vilnius, Lithuania, is a satellite manufacturer and mission integrator that specializes in small satellite buses and mission services. The company offers a range of products, including various configurations of satellite buses and propulsion systems, catering to clients in the aerospace and telecommunications sectors. With a workforce of around 203 employees, Kongsberg NanoAvionics has established itself as a key player in the small satellite market, having launched over 80 satellites or having them in production. They are recognized for their innovative approach, being the first to build and launch a 4K video streaming satellite and a 5G IoT constellation in low Earth orbit. Their operations emphasize reliability and performance, with a mission success rate of over 90%. The company has also secured significant funding, with the last round amounting to approximately $65 million in September 2022, which supports their ongoing development and expansion in the satellite industry.
22. China Great Wall Industry Corporation
- Website: cgwic.com
- Ownership type: Private Equity
- Headquarters: Beijing, Beijing, China
- Latest funding: Series B, $17.0M, May 2017
- Founded year: 1980
- Headcount: 201-500
- LinkedIn: china-great-wall-industry-corporation
China Great Wall Industry Corporation (CGWIC), founded in 1980 and based in Beijing, is a private equity aerospace company that specializes in satellite launch services, satellite communication, and earth observation. With a workforce of approximately 201-500 employees, CGWIC has established itself as a reliable provider of access to space for international organizations and governments. The company operates a range of launch vehicles, including the Long March series, which have been instrumental in deploying satellites into various orbits. CGWIC also engages in technology applications and offers comprehensive services such as consulting and trade. Their commitment to international cooperation further enhances their position in the aerospace sector. In 2017, CGWIC secured $17 million in Series B funding, indicating ongoing investment in their capabilities and services.
23. SSC - Swedish Space Corporation
- Website: sscspace.com
- Ownership type: Private
- Headquarters: Solna, Stockholm, Sweden
- Employee distribution: Sweden 80%, United States (USA) 8%, Chile 3%, Other 9%
- Founded year: 1972
- Headcount: 501-1000
- LinkedIn: ssc-swedish-space-corporation
Founded in 1972, SSC - Swedish Space Corporation is a private space services provider based in Solna, Stockholm, Sweden. With approximately 680 employees, SSC specializes in a variety of space-related services, including satellite launches, sounding rockets, and scientific support. The company operates from the Esrange Space Center in northern Sweden, which serves as a hub for launching sounding rockets and stratospheric balloons. SSC has successfully conducted over 1,200 missions, showcasing their extensive experience in the field. They cater to both commercial and institutional clients globally, facilitating access to space for research and technology development. Their satellite launch services focus on small satellites, with capabilities for standardized polar orbits. SSC also offers a robust satellite ground station network, enhancing their service offerings in spacecraft operations and engineering. Their commitment to innovation and safety is evident in their ongoing projects and partnerships, positioning them as a significant contributor to the space industry.
24. Alaska Aerospace Corporation
- Website: akaerospace.com
- Ownership type: Private
- Headquarters: Kodiak, Alaska, United States (USA)
- Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
- Founded year: 1991
- Headcount: 11-50
- LinkedIn: alaska-aerospace-corporation
Alaska Aerospace Corporation (AAC) is a private aerospace company founded in 1991, based in Kodiak, Alaska. The company specializes in space launch services and operates the Pacific Spaceport Complex (PSCA), which has been facilitating launches since 1998. PSCA is notable for being the first FAA-licensed spaceport not co-located on a federal range, providing year-round access to space for various applications, including national security and scientific research. AAC serves a mix of government and commercial clients, emphasizing responsive and low-cost launch solutions. The company also engages in educational initiatives and community outreach, aiming to foster interest in aerospace and science. Their operational model is unique, as they have not relied on state or federal funding for operations since 2015, instead focusing on generating revenue through their launch services. This independence allows them to prioritize customer needs and streamline processes, making them a competitive player in the space launch market.
25. Exotrail
- Website: exotrail.com
- Ownership type: Private Equity
- Headquarters: Massy, Île-De-France, France
- Employee distribution: France 100%
- Latest funding: Series B, $58.0M, February 2023
- Founded year: 2015
- Headcount: 51-200
- LinkedIn: exotrail
Exotrail is a private equity-backed space technology company based in Massy, Île-De-France, France, founded in 2015. The company specializes in mobility solutions for satellites, offering a range of services that include propulsion systems and mission design software tailored for satellite operators. Exotrail's innovative products aim to optimize satellite deployment, enhance operational efficiency, and address environmental concerns associated with space activities. Their portfolio includes high-thrust propulsion systems, mission simulation tools, and orbital transfer vehicles, all designed to improve the performance of small satellites. In February 2023, Exotrail secured €58 million in Series B funding, underscoring its growth trajectory and the increasing demand for its services in the aerospace industry.
Orbital Flight Insights: Key Companies
Company | Headquarter | Size | Founded | Ownership |
---|---|---|---|---|
SpaceX | Hawthorne, California, United States (USA) | 1001-5000 | 2002 | Private Equity |
Blue Origin | Kent, Washington, United States (USA) | 10001+ | 2000 | Venture Capital |
Axiom Space | Houston, Texas, United States (USA) | 501-1000 | 2016 | Venture Capital |
Sierra Space | Louisville, Colorado, United States (USA) | 1001-5000 | 2021 | Private Equity |
United Launch Alliance (ULA) | Centennial, Colorado, United States (USA) | 1001-5000 | 2006 | Private |
PLD Space | Elche, Valencian Community, Spain | 201-500 | 2011 | Corporate |
Skyrora Ltd | Cumbernauld, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK) | 51-200 | 2017 | Venture Capital |
EXOS Aerospace Systems & Technologies | Corsicana, Texas, United States (USA) | 11-50 | 2014 | Venture Capital |
ArianeGroup | Les Mureaux, Île-De-France, France | 5001-10000 | 2015 | Corporate |
SolAero by Rocket Lab | Albuquerque, New Mexico, United States (USA) | 201-500 | 1998 | Corporate |
Firefly Aerospace | United States (USA) | 501-1000 | 2017 | Venture Capital |
Skyroot Aerospace | Hyderabad, Telangana, India | 201-500 | 2018 | Private Equity |
Orbex | Forres, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK) | 51-200 | 2015 | Venture Capital |
TeamIndus - Axiom Research Labs | Bengaluru, Karnataka, India | 51-200 | 2011 | Private |
Blue Canyon Technologies | Lafayette, Colorado, United States (USA) | 201-500 | 2008 | Corporate |
Impulse Space | Redondo Beach, California, United States (USA) | 51-200 | 2021 | Venture Capital |
Isar Aerospace | Ottobrunn, Bavaria, Germany | 201-500 | 2018 | Venture Capital |
D-Orbit | Fino Mornasco, Lombardy, Italy | 201-500 | 2011 | Private Equity |
LandSpace | Beijing, Beijing, China | 201-500 | 2015 | Venture Capital |
Beyond Gravity | Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland | 1001-5000 | 2009 | Private |
Kongsberg NanoAvionics | Vilnius, Vilnius, Lithuania | 201-500 | 2014 | Corporate |
China Great Wall Industry Corporation | Beijing, Beijing, China | 201-500 | 1980 | Private Equity |
SSC - Swedish Space Corporation | Solna, Stockholm, Sweden | 501-1000 | 1972 | Private |
Alaska Aerospace Corporation | Kodiak, Alaska, United States (USA) | 11-50 | 1991 | Private |
Exotrail | Massy, Île-De-France, France | 51-200 | 2015 | Private Equity |
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