Science

Reflex Aerospace Makes History: Launching SIGI, its First Commercial Satellite!

2024-12-17

Author: Rajesh

Reflex Aerospace Makes History: Launching SIGI, its First Commercial Satellite!

In a groundbreaking achievement for the European aerospace industry, Reflex Aerospace successfully shipped its inaugural commercial satellite, SIGI, to Vandenberg Space Force Base on December 11, 2024. This pivotal mission aims to deliver a critical payload into orbit for Media Broadcast Satellite (MBS), marking a significant step for Reflex Aerospace as it establishes its footprint in the rapidly evolving NewSpace sector.

Weighing in at an impressive 109 kg, SIGI exemplifies the company’s commitment to providing high-performance and quickly deployable satellite solutions. Walter Ballheimer, CEO and Co-founder of Reflex Aerospace, expressed his excitement: "We are thrilled by the successful shipment of SIGI, which reflects our core mission of delivering high-performance, rapidly deployable satellite solutions. The demand for high-performance satellites has never been greater, and we are prepared to meet that demand through our mass-customization approach."

What sets Reflex Aerospace apart is their incredible turnaround time—an order placed in June 2023 transformed into a flight-ready satellite by August 2024. This swift development cycle demonstrates the company’s dedication to excellence and innovation. SIGI is just the beginning, as it is the first of four signed contracts, showcasing the company’s expanding influence and validation in the competitive NewSpace arena.

The satellite is scheduled for launch aboard the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket during the highly anticipated Transporter-12 Rideshare mission, which is set to take place no earlier than January 2025. While some technical specifications remain classified due to mission sensitivities, what is clear is Reflex Aerospace's determination to redefine the future of satellite manufacturing.

As the first venture-backed small satellite manufacturer in Germany, Reflex Aerospace has amassed over 16 million Euros in funding from key investors such as Alpine Space Ventures, High-Tech Grunderfonds, and Bayern Kapital. This financial backing not only fuels their ambitious projects but also reinforces their position as a leader in the NewSpace movement, paving the way for future innovations in satellite technology.

Stay tuned as SIGI prepares for its historic launch—this is just the beginning for Reflex Aerospace!