Reaction Dynamics

Reaction Dynamics is a Quebec, Canada-based launch startup developing the Aurora small orbital launch vehicle using a novel eco-friendly hybrid propulsion system that burns a bio-derived polymer as fuel. Traditional hybrid rockets use inert solid fuel grains (typically HTPB rubber) combined with a liquid oxidizer (usually LOX or nitrous oxide). Reaction Dynamics' differentiating approach is replacing petroleum-derived HTPB with a biopolymer fuel derived from renewable biological feedstocks — reducing the carbon intensity of the propellant supply chain, a consideration that is growing in regulatory and public perception significance as the launch frequency of the industry scales. The Aurora vehicle targets the small satellite launch market in the 10-50 kg payload class to sun-synchronous orbit (SSO), a high-demand orbit for Earth observation and technology demonstration satellites. The company plans to launch from a Nova Scotia site, leveraging the Canadian Maritime province's favorable geographic position for SSO launches over the Atlantic — a trajectory that avoids populated downrange areas. With a target of first orbital launch by 2028, Reaction Dynamics is working toward flight heritage while competing with Rocket Lab's Electron, ABL Space Systems, and other micro-launch vehicles in a competitive market. The company benefits from the Canadian Space Agency's growing support for domestic commercial launch capability.