Orbex Appoints Leading UK Space Expert as CTO Ahead of First Launch

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UK-based orbital launch services company, Orbex, has today announced the appointment of its new Chief Technology Officer, Andy Bradford.

Bradford brings over two decades of experience in the space industry, with specialism in small satellite and launch operations having previously led UK Launch Services Ltd (UKLSL) as CEO and spent over 10 years in various senior technical and project roles, including Director of Engineering, with Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd (SSTL). UKLSL has worked with Orbex since 2017, providing Andy with vast knowledge of the company’s technology and approach.

Bradford's appointment comes at a critical time for Orbex as it enters the final preparations of the development of its advanced, low-carbon, high-performance micro-launcher, Orbex Prime. The company is now gearing up to deliver its inaugural launch later this year.

Andy Bradford said: "Since 2017, in my role as CEO of UKLSL, I’ve worked closely with Orbex to help define and shape the UK’s vertical launch capabilities, and I’m excited to join the company permanently at such a crucial time in its journey, allowing me to fulfil a personal ambition of playing a key role in enabling the first launch of a UK built launch vehicle from UK soil. Orbex's technology is pivotal in making the UK a hub for European orbital launch and I look forward to bringing my experience to a launch vehicle which will compete with the best of Europe’s spaceflight companies.”

Phil Chambers, CEO of Orbex, commented: "We are thrilled to welcome Andy to the Orbex team. He will play a key role in the final development and delivery of Orbex Prime. Andy's extensive expertise and visionary approach to technology will be invaluable as we prepare for our first launch this year.”

Bradford’s experience also includes operating as Programme and Technical Director at SSTL, a major UK satellite manufacturer. He is also the current Vice-Chair of the UKSpace Launch Committee (ULC), is a member of the UK Spaceflight Safety and Regulatory Council (SSRC) and a member of the Earth & Space Sustainability Initiative (ESSI) Advisory Board.