Orbex, the UK-based orbital launch services company, has been pre-selected by the European Space Agency (ESA) to take part in its prestigious European Launcher Challenge (ELC). Orbex was selected against a range of criteria including the suitability of its launch vehicle, the robustness of its business case, and the quality and credibility of its technical approach.
Initiated in November 2023, the ELC program aims to support the development of new sovereign European launch capabilities. It was created by ESA to promote better European access to space and to increase the competitiveness of European launch services. It provides contractual and financial commitments to launch contracts for ESA programs and possibly other institutional customers from 2026 to 2030.
Phil Chambers, CEO of Orbex, said, “Being pre-selected as part of the European Launcher Challenge is a milestone moment — not just for Orbex, but for the UK space sector as a whole.
“The benefits go far beyond our own operational roadmap. This recognition strengthens the UK’s global competitiveness, helps create high-value jobs and attract investment, and takes us closer to delivering sovereign launch capabilities — reducing reliance on overseas providers and building real strategic autonomy in space.
“For Orbex, it’s a major opportunity to accelerate launch vehicle development and play a central role in shaping Europe’s future in space.”