AirLaunch provides on‑demand orbital launch services by deploying rockets from aircraft, bypassing weather and fixed‑site constraints. Operating from existing airports, the system can deliver up to 150 kg to low‑Earth orbit using a fully reusable, electric‑pump‑fed first stage with seven Thor engines producing 120 kN of thrust.
Funding
Funding not disclosed
Founders
Product
Problem
European launch providers face constraints from dense population, variable weather, and reliance on fixed launch sites, which can cause delays and increase costs for satellite operators. The limited number of available launch windows hampers rapid deployment of small payloads needed for emerging commercial and governmental missions.
Solution
AirLaunch offers on‑demand orbital launch services by releasing rockets from a carrier aircraft, allowing launches above weather systems and away from traditional launch complexes. The system operates from existing airports, enabling rapid response times of hours to days for European customers. Its first stage is a fully reusable, electric‑pump‑fed vehicle powered by seven Thor engines delivering 120 kN of thrust, capable of delivering up to 150 kg to low‑Earth orbit. By decoupling launch operations from fixed infrastructure, AirLaunch reduces dependency on ground‑based facilities and lowers overall launch costs while providing flexible, point‑to‑point access to space.
Target Audience
Primary customers are European satellite operators, defense agencies, and commercial enterprises requiring fast, low‑cost access for small payloads, as well as launch service integrators seeking flexible, on‑demand launch capabilities.
Features
- Air‑launch from a carrier aircraft eliminates weather‑related delays and removes the need for dedicated launch pads
- Fully reusable first stage with electric‑pump‑fed LOX/propane propulsion for rapid turnaround
- Seven Thor engines providing 120 kN total thrust, optimized for small‑payload delivery
- Payload capacity of up to 150 kg to LEO and capability for sun‑synchronous orbit insertions
- Integration with existing airport infrastructure enables launches from locations close to customers
- Compact 12 m length, 1 m diameter vehicle design simplifies handling and transport