Satellite launch and deployment service
Schedule flexibility and on-time delivery, with proven partners
Whether you are ready for lift-off or require guidance on securing the launch option that is right for your mission, the Spire team is ready to support your successful journey to orbit. For years, we have helped our business and partners find the ideal combination of altitude, orbital inclination, and a launch vehicle provider to match their mission’s budget, timeline, and requirements. Spire’s launch campaign management is key to our end-to-end space service.
Experienced with diverse orbital parameters
Spire’s unparalleled launch services are designed to contribute to your success. From precise orbital placements through to ISS-based missions, we specialize in navigating the complexities of spaceflight. We prioritize speed and efficiency, sometimes organising launch campaigns in days, delivering the results you need for your mission. Navigate low Earth orbit effortlessly with our expertise, ensuring precise orbital placements every single time.
Range:
500-600km
Altitude:
Up to 650km
Inclinations:
Equatorial, Sun-synchronous Orbit, 51.6 degrees inclination, 83/85 degrees inclination, 37 degrees inclination
Spire launch history
For 11+ years, Spire has generated and leveraged expertise in Radio Frequency (RF) solutions to remarkable success. Our satellite launches have contributed to a legacy of reliable data delivery for clients via a network of pre-licensed, fully operational ground stations.
Spire’s global launch network
Spire’s satellite constellation and ground station network ensure consistent, reliable data delivery. Our experience is bolstered by our authorization across multiple jurisdictions, allowing us to collect and transfer data. Our commitment to operational excellence positions Spire as a trusted partner for launching satellites from locations around the world, providing a strong foundation for global data connectivity.
Spire past launch locations
Spire’s launch journey from Earth to orbit
Our experienced spaceflight team approaches each launch mission with a tailored perspective, supported by years of experience and expertise. From meticulous launch planning to seamless integration, through to the thrilling moment of lift-off, Spire works alongside you as partners to ensure that your satellites reach their orbital destination exactly as planned.
01
Manifest development
Spire continuously monitors the available launch vehicles and partners in the market, to cultivate a diverse manifest of available launch opportunities. Using our proprietary Rocket Reliability Metric (R3), we stack ranks launch companies on many metrics for choosing the right launch partner for you.
02
Mission planning
We’ll analyze the requirements of your mission, considering unique objectives, payload characteristics, desired orbits, and export restrictions. We will also select and procure the appropriate satellite deployer for your mission. We undertake this planning with the end goal of catering to the mission timelines that are important to you.
03
Mission management
Our ongoing mission management allows us to take charge of the launch process. We will develop Interface Control Documents (ICD), coordinate launch schedules, develop onboarding software, and ensure your mission is executed smoothly.
04
Satellite integration
Once your satellite is manufactured, Spire will integrate it into the selected deployer, either in our end-to-end manufacturing facility, or on-site with the launch service provider. Our proven process ensures your satellites are securely connected and ready for the upcoming journey to orbit and subsequent deployment.
05
Export & logistics
For a successful lift-off, Spire and our deployment partner ensure that we get your spacecraft securely, reliably, and on time to the launch site. No matter the location of your launch site across the globe, you can rely on Spire’s delivery provider to meet your needs.
06
Lift off & checkout
Following a successful deployment in orbit, our satellite operations team manages the automated deployment and checkout of the satellite, ensuring your new space assets are safe and ready to commence your mission.
Launch campaign excellence
Swift
Spire holds multi-launch agreements (MLAs) with a variety of providers, allowing us to match your schedule requirements with launch options that provide you with swift access to space.
Flexible
An established network of industry-leading launch partners enables Spire to meet your mission-critical deadlines and quickly source backup launches where needed.
Reliable
Spire’s proven track record of on-time delivery and network of trusted, pre-vetted launch partners ensures dependable access to space for your precious cargo.
Seamless
We manage the complexities of launch service management including export control, transport logistics, and safety documentation, making the process of launching a mission a seamless part of the end-to-end space service.
Payload deployment options
Deployer pod
Spire has experience in deploying over 175+ satellites via deployment pods, amounting to more than 35+ missions to date. This method adds increased security and protection due to the payload being further encapsulated, whilst ITAR-compliant and ITAR-free partners can select this solution. Spire has successfully worked with partners such as Exolaunch, NanoRacks, Rocket Lab, as well as a variety of national space agencies, to successfully launch satellites using pods. Our multi-launch agreements often utilize this deployment method.
Photo by: Exolaunch
Payload ring
Cost-effective payload attachment. An interface payload ring acts as a physical interface between satellites and the upper stage, designed to attach tertiary satellites and payload deployers. Spire offers this method of deployment for customers with larger satellites and strict mass budgets. A payload ring also provides an ideal option for irregular-sized payloads.
Photo by: Exolaunch
Orbital transfer vehicle (OTV)
An OTV is an external propulsion unit that can deliver small satellites to precise orbits. While a typical “rideshare” mission acts like a train taking cargo to a commonly visited spot, an OTV is like a taxi travelling to an exact destination. Satellites can either be directly attached to the OTV, attached via an OTV payload ring, or housed inside payload deployers. The satellite can then be deployed when the location is reached by the OTV. Having worked with partners like D-Orbit for delivering satellites beyond launch to the precise desired orbit via orbital transfer vehicles, we can offer this option to our extensive launch capability list.
Photo by: D-Orbit
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