Vector Launch Systems Enters Microsat Launch Business
SpaceX Founding Team Launches Vector Space Systems to Redefine Space Commerce, SpaceRef Business
“I am truly honored and thrilled to be leading a team of industry veterans on such an important and pivotal space startup. We see innovation and value creation being the strongest in the Micro Satellite sector and Vector Space Systems will create a development platform that will foster this innovation and bring the reality of space to a much larger pool of entrepreneurs who don’t need to be space experts. I am likewise honored to have such an influential group of seed investors who will bring much needed Silicon Valley DNA to the space business and will deeply influence our business, sales, marketing and product development strategies,” said CEO Jim Cantrell
Marc’s note: Of note, Vector announced today it has received its first rounding of funding, $1M from angel investors who weren’t disclosed. Competition comparisons include Rocket Labs and FireFly, though Vector says their launch vehicle is cheaper starting at $2M with their primary market being under 50kg. There’s definitely a need for a dedicated microsatellite launcher. Launch sites they plan to use include Kodiak and Cape Canaveral. Yet another potential customer for KSC.
A need yes, but only if cost can be reduced. What do they bring to the table that suggests they can launch a satellite for $2M (presumably into polar orbit from Kodiac)?
Well, John Garvey, for one, brings with him the engines that will be used. Garvey Spacecraft Corporation has flown sounding rocket missions using a vehicle powered by one of the engines the new Vector Launch Vehicle will use three of in its 1st stage. The whole vehicle, in fact, looks to be pretty much the Nanosat Launch Vehicle Garvey has had on its web site for awhile. Check out the full Vector press release. This looks to be a pretty “salty” bunch of founders.
And, yes, Vector will be launching high-inclination missions from Kodiak – probably using Garvey’s recently struck launch deal there – but the Vector web site says it’ll be doing lower inclination missions from the Cape.
And they’re looking to make the 1st stage reusable.
Unlike most of the small launch vehicle startups, the people involved have designed, built and flown many liquid fueled rockets. Of course they need to go higher and faster, but at least they know how much it costs to go from drawing board to launch pad.
This is probably just me but the detailed image of the upper stage and PLF really looks like something out of Kerbal Space Program! 😉
Black is the new B&W check?