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Launcher (acquired by Vast)

Launcher (later renamed Launcher Space) was a Hawthorne, California-based company that developed rocket propulsion and orbital transfer vehicles using advanced manufacturing, including 3D-printed engines.

Hawthorne, United States Est. 2017 Commercial
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Quick Facts
Country
United States
Founded
2017
Type
commercial
Status
acquired

About Launcher (acquired by Vast)

Launcher (later renamed Launcher Space) was a Hawthorne, California-based company that developed rocket propulsion and orbital transfer vehicles using advanced manufacturing, including 3D-printed engines. Founded in 2017, Launcher developed the E-2 engine (oxygen/kerosene, ~22 kN) aimed at a small orbital launch vehicle. The company pivoted to also develop Orbiter, a spacecraft that serves as an orbital transfer vehicle and hosted payload platform for smallsat rideshare customers. Launcher was acquired by Vast in 2023 — the commercial space station startup founded by Jed McCaleb — to contribute propulsion and spacecraft technology toward the Haven-1 and future station modules. The Orbiter transfer vehicle's heritage and team were folded into Vast's in-space propulsion and docking development program.

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Frequently asked about Launcher (acquired by Vast)

Quick answers to the questions readers most often search for.

When was Launcher (acquired by Vast) founded?
Launcher (acquired by Vast) was founded in 2017 in United States.
Where is Launcher (acquired by Vast) headquartered?
Launcher (acquired by Vast) is headquartered in Hawthorne, United States.
What does Launcher (acquired by Vast) do?
Launcher (later renamed Launcher Space) was a Hawthorne, California-based company that developed rocket propulsion and orbital transfer vehicles using advanced manufacturing, including 3D-printed engines. Founded in 2017, Launcher developed the E-2 engine (oxygen/kerosene, ~22 kN) aimed at a small orbital launch vehicl…
Was Launcher (acquired by Vast) acquired?
Launcher (acquired by Vast) has been acquired.
What sector does Launcher (acquired by Vast) operate in?
Launcher (acquired by Vast) operates in propulsion, launch-services.

Data Accuracy Notice: Information about Launcher (acquired by Vast) is compiled from publicly available sources including company websites, press releases, regulatory filings, and industry reports. Data is reviewed periodically but may not reflect the most recent developments.

Last updated: June 30, 2026
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