Exolaunch has signed a multi-launch agreement (MLA) with SATORO Space, a commercial satellite manufacturer that specializes in smallsats — this MLA encompasses a strategic partnership between Exolaunch and SATORO Space to deploy at least three satellites through 2025, marking a significant collaboration in advancing the global, commercial, space industry.
Under the terms of the MLA, the first launch occurred on SpaceX’s Transporter-10 mission, which launched SATORO’s IRIS-F1 satellite on March 4, 2024, from Vandenberg Space Force Base, California. Using Exolaunch’s EXOpod Nova containerized satellite deployer, IRIS-F1 was successfully deployed and will conduct a scientific on-orbit verification mission with an automatic identification system (AIS). Subsequent launches will follow, extending the agreement through the end of 2025.
Initially, what began as a single launch agreement for SATORO Space, under the expertise of Exolaunch, has evolved into a comprehensive, multi-launch commitment that extends to future rideshare missions. This expansion underlines the confidence and trust that SATORO Space places in Exolaunch’s team, mission management capabilities, and reliable, flight-proven hardware.
SATORO Space, a spin-off from the prestigious National Cheng Kung University (NCKU), is a direct outcome of successful collaborative efforts between academia and industry and brings a wealth of expertise in building small satellites. SATORO is poised to emerge as a preeminent commercial satellite manufacturer in Asia, contributing to the region’s growing presence in the global space industry. With Exolaunch’s flight heritage in launching more than 390 satellites across 26 missions, this collaboration will enable and ensure seamless deployment and mission success for SATORO Space’s satellites.
“We are pleased to announce this multi-launch agreement with SATORO Space, highlighting the synergies between our launch mission integration capabilities and their expertise in smallsat manufacturing,” said Kier Fortier, managing director of Exolaunch USA. “We are especially thrilled and privileged to have successfully deployed the IRIS-F1 satellite, and look forward to a successful partnership, contributing to the advancement of space exploration, innovation, and commercial satellite technology. This partnership reflects our commitment to making space accessible, supporting emerging players in the NewSpace industry, and providing flexible and reliable launch solutions to meet the evolving needs of our global customers.”
Exolaunch (Germany, USA) is a global leader in launch mission integration and deployment technologies. With a decade of flight heritage and over 390 satellites launched across 26 missions to date, Exolaunch leverages industry insight to tailor turnkey solutions that meet customer needs and respond to market trends. Exolaunch fulfills launch contracts for industry leaders, the world’s most innovative start-ups, research institutions, government organizations, and international space agencies. The company develops and manufactures its own flight-proven and industry-leading small satellite separation systems, with the fastest-growing heritage on the market. Exolaunch is committed to making space accessible to all and to promoting its safe, sustainable, and responsible use.
