SpinLaunch

SpinLaunch develops kinetic launch systems using centrifugal acceleration and a LEO satellite broadband constellation, aiming to cut the cost of access to space.

SpinLaunch is a space technology company developing kinetic launch technology and satellite communications systems. Founded in 2014 by Jonathan Yaney and headquartered in Long Beach, California, the company has raised over $150 million from investors including Kleiner Perkins, GV and ATW Partners. Its stated aim is to lower the cost and environmental burden of reaching orbit.

The company's principal engineering work centres on centrifugal acceleration. The Orbital Accelerator System is a ground-based launcher that spins satellites to high speed before releasing them towards orbit; SpinLaunch says this design eliminates up to 70 percent of the fuel and structural components used by conventional rockets and propels payloads at speeds of up to 8,000 kph. A Suborbital Accelerator operates at Spaceport America in New Mexico as a test facility, and holds the distinction of being the largest span vacuum chamber ever built. The relevant technical domains include vacuum chamber technology, orbital launch systems and centrifugal acceleration.

SpinLaunch has also moved into satellite communications with Meridian Space, a low-cost LEO satellite constellation intended to deliver fiber-like broadband speeds to enterprise customers worldwide. The shift reflects a broader pivot from launch services towards operating space infrastructure and selling connectivity. Industry verticals span space technology, aerospace launch services and enterprise telecommunications. The company was named one of the most innovative companies by TIME Magazine in 2022.