Turion Space has selected Exolaunch to provide launch services for the company’s first DROID spacecraft aboard a SpaceX, Falcon 9, Transporter rideshare mission.
The launch is planned for early 2023 using Exolaunch’s CarboNIX separation system that proved its reliable performance having deployed nearly 40 microsats over nine missions.
This is the first mission for Turion Space, named “Get it Up There,” to serve as a demonstrator for a fleet of satellites designed, assembled, launched, and operated by Turion Space. This fleet is designed to provide on-demand and recurring inspection data of other space objects in LEO and host internal development experiments for future space logistic services, including space debris removal.
“Exolaunch was recommended to us by several companies and it became apparent from day one why,” said Tyler Pierce, CFO at Turion Space. “They have been so easy to work with, have a very high-reliability system, and top-notch customer support at all levels.”
“We’re pleased to welcome Turion Space as a customer and support the launch of DROID.001 with Falcon 9,” said Kier Fortier, Launch Director at Exolaunch USA. “The choice of the launch partner is a matter of trust, especially for the premiere flight. Our teams are working closely to send DROID.001 to orbit early next year and we look forward to future missions with Turion Space.”
Turion Space designs, develops, and operates “DROID” spacecraft in Irvine, California. These spacecraft enhance space resiliency by gathering space-situational-awareness data and providing space logistics services including in-orbit transportation, and orbital debris removal services. Turion Space is a startup backed by Y-combinator to combat the growing threat of space debris, clearing a safe path for humanity’s exploration and expansion into the final frontier.
Exolaunch (Germany, USA) is a global leader in rideshare launch, deployment and integration services for the NewSpace industry. With a decade of flight heritage and 230+ satellites launched across 16 missions on launch vehicles around the world, Exolaunch has an industry insight it can leverage to develop one-stop solutions tailored towards meeting customer needs and addressing market trends. Exolaunch executes launch contracts for NewSpace leaders, the world’s most innovative startups, research institutions, government organizations, and space agencies. Exolaunch manufactures lightweight and flight-proven separation systems to deliver integration and deployment services for small satellites. The company is also developing a line of environmentally-friendly orbital transfer vehicles named Reliant for the satellite last-mile transportation, in-space logistics and space debris removal. Exolaunch is committed to making space accessible for everyone and to promoting safe, sustainable and responsible use of space.