Virgin Orbit

Virgin Orbit (USA, founded 2017) developed the LauncherOne system – an orbital rocket released from under the wing of a modified 747 airplane. This air-launch approach provides flexibility in launch location and orientation, allowing satellites up to ~300 kg to reach orbit without a traditional fixed launch pad. Virgin Orbit achieved its first successful launch in January 2021, deploying several small satellites to orbit. The company conducted multiple launches from the Mojave Air & Space Port in California and was preparing for international launch campaigns (including one from the UK) to demonstrate global launch capability. However, after some launch failures and financial difficulties, Virgin Orbit ceased operations in 2023. The company’s innovative air-launch concept showed promise for responsive launch, but also highlighted the challenges of achieving reliability and financial viability in the small launch sector.