Titan VCT portfolio company story: Orbex
Launching the first vertical rocket from UK soil using advanced, low carbon, high performance micro-launch rockets.
What Orbex does
Orbex is a UK-based private, low-cost rocket company, serving the needs of the small satellite industry. It has developed one of the world’s most advanced, low carbon, high performance micro-launch rockets, with the aim of launching the first vertical rocket from UK soil and creating the first European commercial launch vehicle business. The company is also the first to use bio-Liquid Petroleum Gas (bioLPG) as a fuel source. This greener, cheaper and less toxic alternative to kerosene helps minimise the impact of space travel on the environment. Its use is made possible by Orbex’s innovative approaches to design, such as a carbon fibre reinforced polymer, that reduces the weight of the rocket by 30%, and a 3D printed engine that is one of the largest of its kind.
Why we like it
Chris Larmour, founder and CEO is an impressive entrepreneur with a technically experienced team. Staff have worked at NASA, European Space Agency (ESA) and commercial organisations developing engines and vehicles for landmark space projects such as Ariane 5 and ATV. Orbex’s patented technology and growing customer base have also won it substantial support from governments and space agencies. Investments to date have secured the roadmap to the first launch, which will be from the Space Hub Sutherland spaceport in Scotland.
What our fund managers say
“Orbex is creating a highly innovative launch solution that’s rapidly gaining market traction with very serious customers. The funding environment in Europe for this type of business is extremely positive, driven largely by grants from UK and European governments and Space Agencies which allow Orbex to retain ownership to continue their meaningful work. We’re pleased to be part of Orbex’s future, and we’re excited about what they’re looking to achieve.”
-Simon King, Octopus Ventures
Key risks to remember
Please remember that the value of an investment in Octopus Titan VCT, and any income from it, can fall as well as rise. Investors may not get back the full amount they invest.
Tax treatment depends on individual circumstances end may change in the future. Tax reliefs depend on the VCT maintaining its qualifying status.
VCT shares could fall or rise in value more than other shares listed on the main market of the London Stock Exchange. They may also be harder to sell.
Investors should only subscribe for shares on the basis of information contained in the prospectus and Key Information Document (KID), available on the Titan VCT product page. Company examples are for illustrative purposes only and should not be considered an investment recommendation.
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