NewOrbit Space was founded in 2021 to tackle the challenges and unlock the commercial potential of flying satellites at altitudes of 200 to 300 kilometers. Credit: NewOrbit Space
SAN FRANCISCO – NewOrbit Space, a UK startup developing satellites for very low Earth orbit (VLEO), has raised $18.5 million in a Series A investment round.
With the funding, announced June 8, NewOrbit will conduct its first mission, attract customers seeking access to VLEO and establish a facility to produce affordable satellites, Anatolii Papulov, NewOrbit CEO and co-founder, told SpaceNews.
“We are building this as a product for anyone to come to us and say, ‘We want to fly at VLEO, bring us there,’” Papulov said. “We will integrate it and fly there.”
NewOrbit plans to provide commercial service beginning with its first flight in 2028. From an altitude of 250 to 300 kilometers, the startup based in Reading, England, will demonstrate the extensive benefits of operating so low, Papulov said.
