Black Arrow Space Technologies

About Black Arrow Space Technologies

Black Arrow Space Technologies Ltd is a UK-based aerospace company founded in 2017, aiming to re-establish British sovereign launch capabilities. The company's name pays homage to the original Black Arrow program, which made the UK the only nation to develop and then abandon satellite launch capabilities after its final successful launch in 1971. A key differentiator is the firm's commitment to sustainability, planning to be a NetZero launch provider. This involves using cleaner, cryogenic propellants like LNG, leveraging non-mined materials, and implementing recovery strategies. The operational strategy is centered on a seaborne launch platform, the 'Horizon spacefleet', which allows for launches from various international waters, minimizing the need for fixed land-based spaceports and increasing operational flexibility. This approach is designed to reduce environmental impact and inherent risks associated with traditional launches. The leadership team combines expertise from the space, Formula 1, and finance sectors. It includes Paul Williams as Executive Chairman, who has 35 years of experience in space propulsion and project management, and Professor Gary Savage, the Technical Director, known for his work in F1 and with the NASA Space Shuttle. The company is developing the Black Arrow 2, a launch vehicle designed to carry payloads of up to 500kg into Low Earth Orbit (LEO). The business model revolves around providing low-cost, flexible, and reliable launch services to a global customer base, including commercial satellite operators and potentially nations without their own space programs. While initial test launches were planned for 2023, the vehicle is still in development, with a second stage engine test reported in July 2023. Black Arrow Space Technologies has established Memoranda of Understanding with suppliers like Argo Navis Aerospace of New Zealand for upper-stage rocket engines. The company's last reported funding was an Accelerator/Incubator round on June 13, 2022.