Orbex, the UK-based Scottish space company behind the Prime microlauncher, is moving toward administration after failing to secure funding through a Series D round, mergers, or acquisitions.

Attempts to raise capital or pursue mergers and acquisitions were unsuccessful, prompting an administration filing and signaling a potential collapse.

About 150 jobs in Scotland are at risk as the Highlands startup nears collapse and prepares for administration.

The European Space Agency emphasises a dynamic, ambitious space ecosystem and notes initiatives like the ELC are designed to foster progress despite challenges.

Orbex has received around 26 million pounds in government loans since 2024, including 20 million pounds approved in early 2025 and a 6 million-pound loan the prior summer.

The UK government condemns the staff impact, reaffirms support for the space sector, and promises to detail next steps for national space capabilities and launch plans.

Officials indicate more than 150 jobs are at risk, with hundreds of skilled roles in Scotland potentially affected.

SaxaVord Spaceport states Orbex’s troubles will have little operational impact since the site serves multiple clients and had not begun dedicated Orbex infrastructure.

Background context notes prior delays and relocation of launch plans to Shetland after halting the Highlands project.

The administrator appointment allows the company to continue trading while options are explored, including the potential sale of the business or assets.

Orbex received 34.9 million euros from the European Launcher Challenge, far less than the 169 million euros allocated to other winners, with remaining budget yet to be specified by the UK.

Orbex had been eyeing a late-2026 first flight from SaxaVord, backed by government support to build a sovereign UK space-launch capability, but delays and rising costs widened the funding gap.