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Orbex Faces Administration, Endangering UK Space Jobs

2/19/2026

23 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Orbex, a UK-based rocket developer, has appointed administrators after failing to secure funding for its Prime microlauncher.
The company filed a notice on February 11, affecting about 150 employees.
Orbex had pursued a Series D funding round and discussed potential buyers, including The Exploration Company, but no deal was reached.
CEO Phil Chambers expressed disappointment and said the move threatens jobs and the UK’s space ambitions.

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Story summary

Orbex, a UK-based rocket developer, has appointed administrators after failing to secure funding for its Prime microlauncher.
The company filed a notice on February 11, affecting about 150 employees.
Orbex had pursued a Series D funding round and discussed potential buyers, including The Exploration Company, but no deal was reached.
CEO Phil Chambers expressed disappointment and said the move threatens jobs and the UK’s space ambitions.