UK Space Firm Orbex Enters Administration Amid Failed Acquisition

UK-based launch services provider Orbex has entered insolvency proceedings following the collapse of its planned acquisition by The Exploration Company, a European space logistics startup. The acquisition was intended to bolster Orbex's financial stability after its Series D funding round did not meet expectations. The announcement of the acquisition was made on January 21, 2026, but by February 11, Orbex had filed a notice of intention to appoint administrators, marking a significant downturn for the company.

Orbex Fails After Planned Purchase Falls ThroughDid the UK Block The Exploration Company’s Purchase of Orbex?Update: Skyrora to Make Offer on “Select Assets” of Orbex, Interested in Sutherland SpaceportSpace NewsUK space firm Skyrora explores buying assets of struggling rival Orbex

The Exploration Company, led by CEO Hélène Huby, had expressed ambitions to enhance the UK’s space capabilities through the acquisition. However, the UK government did not approve the transaction, which has been suggested as a contributing factor to Orbex's financial troubles. The UK Space Agency acknowledged the competitive nature of the space launch sector, stating, “Some companies will succeed, while others will fail,” indicating a lack of commitment to support Orbex further.

Did the UK Block The Exploration Company’s Purchase of Orbex?Orbex Fails After Planned Purchase Falls ThroughUpdate: Skyrora to Make Offer on “Select Assets” of Orbex, Interested in Sutherland SpaceportSpace NewsSkyrora considers £10m investment in Sutherland spaceport amid Orbex collapseUK space firm Skyrora explores buying assets of struggling rival Orbex

• Orbex: Founded in 2015, the company aimed to develop a sustainable launch capability with its Prime rocket, designed to carry small satellites into low Earth orbit. CEO Phil Chambers has voiced disappointment over the company's fate, emphasizing the capital-intensive nature of rocket development.

Did the UK Block The Exploration Company’s Purchase of Orbex?

• The Exploration Company: A Franco-German startup that sought to acquire Orbex, aiming to strengthen Europe’s launch capabilities.

Orbex Fails After Planned Purchase Falls Through

• Skyrora: A Glasgow-based competitor that has expressed interest in acquiring select assets from Orbex, including the Sutherland Spaceport, with a potential investment of up to £10 million.

Forres rocket firm Orbex could have assets bought by Glasgow-based Skyrora

In response to the failed acquisition, a spokesperson for The Exploration Company stated, “While we are disappointed that this potential transaction will not move forward, we respect the UK decision-making process.” Meanwhile, Phil Chambers remarked, “Disappointing doesn’t come close to describing how we feel about this moment,” highlighting the impact on employees and the broader UK space ambitions.

Did the UK Block The Exploration Company’s Purchase of Orbex?

Critics have pointed to the UK government's shifting focus from a sovereign launch capability to "assured access," which may have contributed to Orbex's struggles. The UK Space Agency's lack of explicit support for Orbex during its critical funding phase has also drawn scrutiny.

Did the UK Block The Exploration Company’s Purchase of Orbex?

Skyrora's interest in acquiring Orbex's assets, particularly the Sutherland Spaceport, could provide a lifeline for some of Orbex's operations. Skyrora's COO, Dr. Jack-James Marlow, emphasized the importance of preserving UK space capabilities and ensuring that technology developed with public funding remains under UK ownership. The outcome of these discussions remains uncertain as Orbex navigates its administration process.

Skyrora to rescue Orbex?Forres rocket firm Orbex could have assets bought by Glasgow-based SkyroraUK space firm Skyrora explores buying assets of struggling rival OrbexUpdate: Skyrora to Make Offer on “Select Assets” of Orbex, Interested in Sutherland SpaceportDid the UK Block The Exploration Company’s Purchase of Orbex?Skyrora considers £10m investment in Sutherland spaceport amid Orbex collapse

While Orbex's insolvency has been confirmed, the extent of its financial difficulties remains unclear, particularly regarding its overdue financial accounts. Additionally, the UK government's future plans for supporting the space sector are yet to be detailed, leaving stakeholders uncertain about the direction of UK space policy.

Did the UK Block The Exploration Company’s Purchase of Orbex?

• “Disappointing doesn’t come close to describing how we feel about this moment.” — Phil Chambers, CEO of Orbex

Update: Skyrora to Make Offer on “Select Assets” of Orbex, Interested in Sutherland Spaceport

• “While we are disappointed that this potential transaction will not move forward, we respect the UK decision-making process,” — Spokesperson for The Exploration Company

Did the UK Block The Exploration Company’s Purchase of Orbex?

• “We recognize this will be a very worrying time for staff at Orbex. Space launch is a highly competitive sector, and it has always been the case that some companies will succeed, while others will fail.” — UK Space Agency Spokesperson

Space News

The situation surrounding Orbex underscores the challenges facing the UK space sector and raises questions about the government's commitment to fostering a sustainable launch capability.

Skyrora considers £10m investment in Sutherland spaceport amid Orbex collapse