Aerospace

Virgin Orbit to Sell Assets to Stratolaunch, Rocket Lab

Orion sent a photo of Earth from its orbit on the sixth day of its voyage to the moon.

Virgin Orbit Holdings, Inc., a flexible space launch provider, declared that it will sell its assets to four successful bidders and discontinue operations after a thorough selling process and a competitive auction performed in accordance with the Bankruptcy Code.

According to bankruptcy court documents issued on Tuesday, Virgin Orbit will pay $17 million to Stratolaunch to purchase Cosmic Girl, a modified Boeing 747. No better offers were received. In the meantime, Rocket Lab has agreed to pay $16.1 million for the primary rocket facility of Virgin Orbit in Long Beach.

Boeing 747 fuselage supplier Triumph Aerostructures is closing two of its facilities.(Opens in a new browser tab)

“Virgin Orbit has always been at the forefront of innovation, and their LauncherOne air launch technology has significantly advanced the field of commercial rocket launch. Modern technology, unique knowledge, and a dedication to quality have helped the company become a leader in the developing commercial launch sector.

Virgin Orbit’s management and staff would like to express their sincere gratitude to all stakeholders, including customers, partners, investors, and workers, for their support and commitment over the years as the company sets out on this journey. The Company has been able to reach key milestones and contribute significantly to the development of satellite launch in the United States and the United Kingdom mainly to their combined efforts.

Lufthansa turning Airbus A350-900 into a Flying Research Lab(Opens in a new browser tab)

“Virgin Orbit’s legacy in the space industry will forever be remembered. Its groundbreaking technologies, relentless pursuit of excellence, and unwavering commitment to advancing the frontiers of air launch have left an indelible mark on the industry.”

As previously announced, on April 4, 2023, the Company and its U.S.-based subsidiaries filed a voluntary proceeding under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code (“Chapter 11”) in the United States Bankruptcy Court in the District of Delaware in order to effectuate a sale of the business. The combined total proceeds were determined by a rigorous and competitive auction which maximizes value for the estate and minimizes the remaining duration of the Company’s restructuring.

Aerospace

Boeing’s Aurora Flight Sciences Expands Columbus Plant by 50,000 Sqft

Credit:Aurora Flight Sciences

Aurora Flight Sciences, a subsidiary of Boeing, has launched a significant expansion of its manufacturing facility near the Golden Triangle Regional Airport in Columbus, Mississippi.

This ambitious project will add 50,000 square feet of new space, renovate 40,000 square feet of the existing facility, and introduce advanced automation equipment, robotics, and non-destructive inspection technologies. mcas boeing enhancements will support the growing demand for Aurora’s aerospace systems business.

Since its establishment, Aurora Mississippi has specialized in the production of advanced composite components and assemblies for both military and commercial aircraft. The company first opened in 2005 at Mississippi State University’s Raspet Flight Research Laboratory in Starkville before relocating to its current site in Columbus two years later.

Initially occupying 21,000 square feet, the facility has since grown to encompass over 120,000 square feet, featuring cutting-edge manufacturing technologies such as automated fiber placement. Aurora’s latest expansion is a strategic investment aimed at increasing production capacity for composite components like boeing titanium used in executive jets and the MQ-25TM Stingray composite skins, a key project for its parent company, Boeing.

Additionally, the facility will produce components for NASA’s X-66 sustainable flight demonstrator aircraft, further diversifying its portfolio. Currently employing around 100 full-time staff in Mississippi, Aurora plans to hire more than 60 additional team members by the end of 2025.

Aurora’s expansion project underscores its commitment to Mississippi’s growing aerospace and advanced manufacturing sector. The company maintains strong partnerships with Mississippi State University (MSU) and East Mississippi Community College (EMCC), contributing to research, higher education, and workforce development in advanced manufacturing.

Additionally, Aurora actively supports local K-12 STEM education through summer camps and collaborates with high school vocational education programs. The expansion and renovation project will be carried out in phases over the next two years, with completion expected by 2026. This development marks a significant milestone in Aurora’s ongoing growth and its role in advancing aerospace manufacturing in Mississippi.