cross-posted from: https://sh.itjust.works/post/13507188

German space agency DLR has awarded an €18 million launch contract to Berlin-based Exolaunch. DLR awarded the contract on behalf of and with funds from the German Ministry of Economics and Climate Protection, and it will see the mission management startup oversee the launch of payloads from winners of the country’s Small Satellite and Small Satellite Payload Competitions.

The €18 million contract awarded to Exolaunch covers a broad range of activities the company will need to complete. It will need to procure launch services aboard European microlaunchers, coordinate the launch campaigns, procure small satellites, and provision the relevant technical guidelines and peripherals for the satellite and payload manufacturers. It will also be required to oversee compatibility analysis, testing, qualification, and manufacturing.