Launcher

Launcher, founded in 2017 by Max Haot, emerged with the ambitious goal of developing an efficient and cost-effective rocket to deliver small satellites to orbit. Haot, a serial entrepreneur with a background in video streaming technology, brought his experience from founding companies like Livestream to the aerospace industry, driven by a vision to democratize access to space. The company initially focused on developing the Launcher Light, a small satellite launch vehicle, and its corresponding E-2 engine, which was notable for being 3D-printed.

A significant milestone in Launcher's journey occurred in February 2023 when it was acquired by Vast, another space startup focused on developing artificial gravity space stations. Following the acquisition, Launcher's focus pivoted. The development of the Launcher Light vehicle was halted to concentrate resources on advancing the E-2 liquid rocket engine. This strategic shift positions the E-2 engine as a key component for Vast's future space station ambitions, likely to be used in a larger rocket system to transport cargo and crew. The company also developed Orbiter, a satellite transfer vehicle and orbital platform designed to be compatible with rockets like SpaceX's Falcon 9. Orbiter can carry up to 400 kg of payload and provides services such as satellite deployment and hosted payload missions. This dual capability of engine development and in-space transportation services places Launcher in a distinct position within the space-tech market, serving both launch providers and satellite operators.

The core of Launcher's technology is the E-2 engine, a closed-cycle liquid oxygen and kerosene engine designed for high performance. By utilizing 3D printing for major components like the combustion chamber, Launcher aimed to significantly reduce manufacturing costs and complexity, a key differentiator in the competitive launch market. While the Launcher Light rocket is no longer in development, the E-2 engine continues to be a central asset, now under the umbrella of Vast. The business model has evolved from a direct-to-market launch provider to a critical technology developer and in-space logistics provider, with the E-2 engine and the Orbiter platform as its primary offerings.

Keywords: rocket engine, satellite deployment, orbital transfer vehicle, 3D-printed engine, space technology, aerospace, small satellites, E-2 engine, Orbiter, Vast