In this episode of Commercial Space Transformers SpaceNews Senior Staff Writer Jason Rainbow speaks with Jörn Spurmann, Chief Commercial Officer, Rocket Factory Augsburg.
Rocket Factory Augsburg, or RFA, has secured the UK’s first vertical orbital launch license, a significant milestone achieved after three years of rigorous documentation and collaboration with the Civil Aviation Authority. Despite a setback from a launch pad explosion, RFA has learned lessons from the failure and is on track for its first flight in 2025.
Spurmann discusses how RFA differentiates itself by offering dedicated small launch systems with higher service levels and lower costs compared to larger vehicles. He also discusses how the company aims to capture a significant portion of the market, particularly in Europe, where there is a high demand for cost-competitive launch services. RFA also emphasizes sustainability, using eco-friendly engine technology and leveraging existing supply chains.
About Commercial Space Transformers
The SpaceNews Commercial Space Transformers video series gives viewers a behind-the-scenes look at the people and companies driving the space industry’s commercial transformation. The weekly series features 15-minute down-to-Earth interviews with key players in space, ranging from the executives at the helm of some of the market’s biggest disruptors to the bankers and investors helping to finance their journey. Join SpaceNews Senior Staff Writer Jason Rainbow as he embarks on a mission to learn where the fast-evolving space industry is heading next.
Watch a new episode every Tuesday on SpaceNews.com and on the SpaceNews YouTube channel.
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