The launches are expected to support Spire Global's space services business as well as upgrade and improve the company’s fully deployed satellite constellation
Spire Global and Virgin Orbit enter into a multi-launch agreement. (Credit: Business Wire/Virgin Orbit)
Space-based data and analytics provider Spire Global has signed a binding launch service agreement with US-based satellite launch provider Virgin Orbit to buy multiple launches over several years.
The launches are expected to support Spire Global’s space services business as well as upgrade and improve the company’s fully deployed satellite constellation.
The first launch is anticipated to take place next year.
Spire Global will launch to various orbits, from mid-inclination to polar, all from Virgin Orbit‘s first spaceport in Mojave, California. The launches are expected to leverage the flexibility of the latter’s LauncherOne orbital launch vehicle, said the two firms.
Spire Global constellation planning and operations vice president Robert Sproles said: “Working with Virgin Orbit gives us flexibility and control over launches, rather than waiting for the secondary rideshare market to provide the orbits we want on timelines that we have to work with.
“It’s particularly crucial for offering our Space Services customers rapid and reliable access to space so that they can meet their mission-critical deadlines.”
The flexibility of LauncherOne’s rapid call-up capabilities is proven with the late-load of Spire Global’s ADLER-1 satellite on board the Above the Clouds mission from Mojave earlier this year, stated the companies.
Through the partnership, the companies aim to offer quick and flexible launch solutions to Spire Global’s customer base.
Virgin Orbit CEO Dan Hart said: “We’re very pleased to have formed this strategic relationship with the innovative Spire team. Our previous joint execution of the ADLER-1 launch demonstrated the potential of marrying expert satellite capabilities with rapid, flexible launch.
“Demand from the small satellite market continues to be strong and we are privileged to be among the few operational companies serving this vitally important sector.”