The Luxembourg-based firm Space Cargo Unlimited plans to launch a one-ton orbital factory in 2028. The facility will be transported to space aboard a SpaceX Starship rocket using the Starfall return vehicle. This project marks a significant scale-up from the company's current missions, which are limited to payloads of up to 100 kilograms.
The company offers an end-to-end service for manufacturing in microgravity, handling equipment preparation, launch, orbital operations, and the return of products to Earth. This model allows clients to bypass the need for developing their own spacecraft or specialized flight hardware. The focus remains on producing pharmaceuticals, biotech goods, and advanced materials.
The 2028 mission is part of a broader strategy to deploy multiple orbital factories of varying sizes. Simultaneously, the company is collaborating with Thales Alenia Space on the development of REV1, a larger autonomous orbital factory. This project leverages technologies from the European Space Agency's Space Rider program to enhance production capabilities.
Currently, Space Cargo Unlimited is engaged in discussions with over 100 potential and existing clients. Approximately 40% of these partners operate within the biotechnology sector. The company aims to transition from experimental payloads to consistent, regular production operations in low Earth orbit through these upcoming initiatives.
