A microlauncher is a small, lightweight rocket designed to launch small payloads, such as microsatellites, into orbit. Microsatellites are small satellites that typically weigh less than 100 kilograms, and microlaunchers are specifically designed to lift these smaller payloads into space.
Microlaunchers are generally smaller and less expensive than larger rockets, which makes them attractive for launching small payloads that do not require the capabilities of a larger launch vehicle. They are also able to launch from a variety of locations, including land-based launch sites, ships, and offshore platforms, which can provide more flexibility and lower costs for satellite operators.
Microlaunchers are an important part of the growing small satellite market, as they provide a cost-effective and flexible option for launching these smaller payloads into orbit.
There are a number of companies and organizations that are developing and producing microlaunchers for the small satellite market. Some examples include:
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Rocket Labs: A New Zealand-based company that has developed the Electron microlauncher, which is capable of launching payloads weighing up to 225 kilograms into low Earth orbit.
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Virgin Orbit: A subsidiary of Virgin Galactic that is developing the LauncherOne microlauncher, which is designed to be launched from a 747 aircraft and can carry payloads weighing up to 500 kilograms into orbit.
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Vector Launch: A California-based company that is developing the Vector-R microlauncher, which is designed to launch payloads weighing up to 60 kilograms into low Earth orbit.
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Relativity Space: A California-based company that is developing the Terran 1 microlauncher, which is designed to launch payloads weighing up to 1,250 kilograms into low Earth orbit.
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Astra Space: A California-based company that is developing the Rocket 3.1 and Rocket 3.2 microlaunchers, which are designed to launch payloads weighing up to 150 kilograms into low Earth orbit.
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Interorbital Systems: A California-based company that is developing the Neptune microlauncher, which is designed to launch payloads weighing up to 150 kilograms into low Earth orbit.
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Firefly Aerospace: This company is developing a small rocket called the Alpha that is designed to carry payloads weighing up to 1,000 kilograms into low Earth orbit.
- GOSA: The German Offshore Spaceport Alliance in Bremen is a consortium of several German companies.
These are just a few examples of the companies that are working on microlauncher technology. There are many other companies and organizations around the world that are also involved in the development and production of microlaunchers.