Open Cosmos’ QB50 CubeSat. Photo: Open Cosmos.

Vector and Open Cosmos announced an agreement to reserve five orbital launches between 2019 and 2023 on the Vector-R launch vehicle. The announcement comes in advance of Vector’s first orbital launch in July.

Based in the United Kingdom, Open Cosmos provides end-to-end mission services that allow its clients to focus on in-orbit data. This company enables dedicated nanosatellite missions for remote sensing payloads, Internet of Things (IOT)/telecommunication services, scientific research, or space technology in-orbit demonstrations. Open Cosmos manufactures its satellites in-house, procures launch services from partners like Vector, and operates Qbee fleets using its own satellite operations system while leveraging existing ground segment infrastructure.

Vector will begin construction on its rocket factory in Pima County, Arizona later this year, designed to produce up to 100 launch vehicles per year to start. Throughout 2018, Vector will be testing major elements of its Vector-R launch vehicle leading up to the July orbital launch.