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 Transfers Rocket Stage to NASA, Paving Way for Human Moon Mission

Image:Boeing

Boeing has achieved a significant milestone by providing NASA with the second core stage of the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket.

This crucial component, crafted at NASA’s Michoud Assembly Facility (MAF), is set to propel the Artemis II crew into lunar orbit, marking humanity’s return to deep space after a 50-year hiatus.

The monumental Boeing-built rocket stage, the largest element of the Artemis II mission, will embark on a journey aboard the Pegasus barge, traveling 900 miles to NASA’s Kennedy Space Center.

Comparison of two legendary aircraft B777x vs B747 aircraft:Click here

Upon arrival, it will be meticulously integrated with other essential Artemis II components, including the upper stage, solid rocket boosters, and NASA’s Orion spacecraft within the iconic Vehicle Assembly Building. This intricate integration process is a vital step toward the eagerly anticipated Artemis II launch, slated for 2025.

“Boeing-built products helped land humankind on the moon in 1969, and we’re proud to continue that legacy through the Artemis generation,” remarked Dave Dutcher, vice president and program manager for Boeing’s SLS program. “Together, with NASA and our industry partners and suppliers, we are building the world’s most capable rocket and paving the way to deep space through America’s rocket factory in New Orleans.”

NASA, Lockheed Martin Reveal X-59 Quiet Supersonic Aircraft:Click here

The delivery of Core Stage 2 marks a significant achievement in the evolution of the SLS rocket. Towering over 200 feet and powered by four RS-25 engines, this core stage, coupled with two solid-fueled booster rockets, will generate a staggering 8.8 million pounds of thrust. This immense power is crucial to launching Artemis II and future missions into the vast expanse of space.

The SLS rocket stands unparalleled in its capability to transport both crew and substantial cargo to the moon and beyond in a single launch. Its extraordinary capacity will facilitate the delivery of human-rated spacecraft, habitats, and scientific missions to destinations including the moon and Mars, ushering in a new era of space exploration.