A European Alternative to SpaceX Emerges
A European Alternative to SpaceX Emerges with HyPrSpace’s Innovative Hybrid Propulsion Technology and Orbital Baguette Class of Vehicles, Now Available on Precious Payload’s Launch.ctrl Platform
French rocket startup, HyPrSpace, and Precious Payload, the global satellite launch marketplace provider, have teamed up. This partnership makes it simple for payload developers to reserve launches using HyPrSpace’s Orbital Baguette-1 (OB-1) rockets. These rockets can deliver 250 kg to LEO, with the maiden launch set for 2026. HyPrSpace caters to the needs of smallsats and satellite constellations with dedicated launches and rideshare opportunities.
The OB-1, pronounced like the Star Wars character Obiwan, promises launches at half the cost of traditional micro-launchers. Its hybrid propulsion system employs a patented innovation, significantly reducing R&D and industrialization costs. Its architecture requires fewer components and has simpler geometry than traditional systems, eliminating the need for turbopumps.
“HyPrSpace’s hybrid engines represent the next generation in space propulsion technology. We believe their approach, which can be scaled to serve a family of launch vehicles and space tugs, and have a potential to lower barriers to space access and enhance in-space mobility,” said Andrew Maximov, CEO and founder of Precious Payload.
HyPrSpace’s hybrid engines are non-explosive, posing less of a fire hazard compared to liquid propulsion. Embracing a greener approach, HyPrSpace’s technology can use various types of solid fuels, including recycled and plant-based HDPE, a type of plastic, commonly found in items like soap bottles, milk containers, and plastic bags.
Sylvain Bataillard, Co-Founder & COO of HyPrSpace, said, “The OB-1 is our leap towards a future of cheaper, safer, and more efficient space access. After two successful engine tests in 2022, we’ve scheduled full-stage configuration ground testing this year, supported by the General Directorate of Armament (DGA), which brings us a step closer to achieving our goal.”
HyPrSpace’s recent collaboration with the French Ministry of Armed Forces’ DGA, which grants access to the DGA Missile Testing site in Gironde, paves the way for further innovation and testing. This strategic alliance strengthens HyPrSpace’s potential to disrupt the launch market. Leveraging this unique opportunity, the company is planning its debut suborbital test launch in 2025.
About HyPrSpace:
HyPrSpace is a French aerospace startup founded in 2019 by a team of dedicated space engineers. With its Orbital Baguette-1 (OB-1) micro-launcher and innovative hybrid propulsion technology, HyPrSpace is setting the stage for cheaper, safer, and greener space access.
About Precious Payload:
Precious Payload is a leading space tech company that developed Launch.ctrl, a marketplace for satellite operators looking to book a launch and the necessary services to take their payloads from the ground to space. Precious Payload is revolutionizing the way space access is bought and sold, with a wide range of launch providers listed on their platform.
