ABL Space Systems
- Founded: 2017
- Country:
- Industry:
Description: ABL Space Systems is an American aerospace company focused on providing cost-effective, flexible launch services for small to medium-sized payloads. The company develops the RS1 launch vehicle and deployable ground systems to deliver reliable access to low Earth orbit (LEO) for commercial, governmental, and defense clients. ABL aims to streamline launch operations and improve space access through rapid deployment capabilities and modular infrastructure.
Vision:
To revolutionize the launch industry through rapid deployment capabilities, enabling customers to access space when and where they need it.
Mission:
To provide flexible, affordable, and reliable launch solutions that expand global access to space.
Contact:
- Website: https://ablspacesystems.com/
- Social Media:
References:
- ABL Space Systems – Official website.
- Grush, L. (2023, Jan 10). ABL Space Systems fails first launch attempt from Alaska.
- O’Callaghan, J. (2024, Jul 19). Second ABL RS1 rocket destroyed during static fire test. TechCrunch.
- Foust, J. (2024, Nov 11). ABL Space Systems pivots from commercial launches to defense applications
- Henry, C. (2021, Oct 12). ABL raises $200M Series B for launch vehicle ramp-up. SpaceNews.
- Erwin, S. (2022, May 6). ABL selected for UK Pathfinder launch from Shetland. SpaceNews.
- Gunter’s Space Page. RS1 launch vehicle technical specifications.
- AFWERX SBIR Contract Database. ABL Phase II contract data 2020–2022.
- PitchBook. ABL Space Systems Company Profile.
Investors:
Funding:
- Series A Funding: Mar 31, 2020 , $: US Dollar49 million
- Series B Funding: Mar 25, 2021, $: US Dollar170 million
- Series B Funding: Oct 25, 2021, $: US Dollar200 million
- Series B Funding: Dec 29, 2023, $: US Dollar40 million
- Dept Financing : Apr 14, 2024, $: US Dollar20 million
Total Funding: $: US Dollar479 million
Key Milestones:
- 2017: Founded by former SpaceX engineers Harry O’Hanley & Dan Piemont.
- 2020 - 2022 : Completed stage-level testing at AFRL/AFWERX; secured DoD SBIR contracts (~$90M).
- Jan 10, 2023: First orbital launch attempt via Kodiak Island failed due to nine-engine shutdown.
- 2024 : Second RS1 prototype destroyed during static-fire test prep.
- 2024 : Announced exit from commercial launch market; pivot toward missile defense applications using RS1 as a target/interceptor platform.
Sector:
Products & Services:
- RS1 Launch Vehicle: A small-lift — up to ~1,350 kg to LEO — two-stage rocket powered by proprietary E2 engines, optimized for simplicity and manufacturability with high use of CNC and 3D printing.
- GS0 Ground System: ISO-containerized launch infrastructure enabling operations from flat sites ~46×15 m with minimal personnel; designed for global portability