Orbex

Orbex (UK, founded 2015) is developing a small orbital rocket called Prime to serve the growing small satellite market. Prime is designed to be reusable and is touted as one of the most environmentally friendly rockets, using a bio-propane fuel that cuts CO₂ emissions. Orbex has constructed a launch site in the north of Scotland (Sutherland Spaceport) to launch Prime for polar and sun-synchronous orbits, aligning with the UK’s initiative to gain domestic launch capability. The rocket’s innovative design includes a lightweight carbon fiber and aluminum composite structure and a novel coaxial fuel tank system. Orbex aims to perform orbital test launches in the mid-2020s and become a key player in European launch services, providing flexible access to space with a greener footprint.