Advancing UK Aerospace, Defence, Security & Space Solutions Worldwide
  • Home
  • /
  • Space
  • /
  • Aurora Avionics secures funding to advance space launch tech

Space

Aurora Avionics secures funding to advance space launch tech

Aerospace technology firm Aurora Avionics has secured a £500,000 investment to accelerate its mission of revolutionising space launch guidance systems.


 
Image courtesy Aurora Avionics
 
Backed by Kelvin Capital, Gabriel and Scottish Enterprise, Edinburgh-based Aurora Avionics is now looking to use the fresh injection of funds to further accelerate its rapid expansion.
 
The funding will allow Aurora Avionics to hire new engineers, grow its operations at the Royal Observatory in Edinburgh and further advance its groundbreaking technology.

Advertisement
ODU RT

 
The firm is a market leader in creating cutting-edge avionics controllers for launch vehicles, rocket engines and general robotics in extreme environments, while also developing innovative universal systems designed to help space firms launch faster, safer and more affordably than ever before.
 
Oren Smith-Carpenter, CEO of the company, said: “Our goal is to set a new standard in modular guidance and data-acquisition systems, equipping manufacturers with the most advanced, cost-effective and versatile avionics solutions on the market.
 
“This investment allows us to do just that and is a catalyst for transformation, not just for us but for the entire space sector.
 
Advertisement
ODU RT

“With this support, we are now in a prime position to accelerate innovation and deliver the next generation of spaceflight technology.”
 
John McNicol, Director of Kelvin Capital commented: “Kelvin Capital is thrilled to support Aurora Avionics at this pivotal stage of their journey. Their groundbreaking work in avionics technology is not only pushing the boundaries of spaceflight innovation but also positioning Scotland as a leader in the global aerospace sector. This investment underscores our commitment to backing high-growth, high-impact companies that are shaping the future.”
 
This latest round of investment follows on from an initial £320,000 investment by Gabriel and Scottish Enterprise last year and subsequently the company was selected for Scottish Enterprise's High Growth Ventures portfolio.
 
Aurora Avionics has also committed itself to innovating its laboratory to simulate real space environments to further increase the start-up’s capabilities.

Oren added: “This investment allows us to continue scaling, pushing technological boundaries, and ensuring we deliver robust, flight-ready solutions that will redefine the future of launch systems.
 
“With new hires on the horizon and cutting-edge technology in place, we are positioned to make a real impact in the industry.”
 
Aurora is on a mission to revolutionise the electronic control systems, called avionics, that serve as a rocket’s central nervous system.
 
Its co-founders, Oren Smith-Carpenter and Rowland Fraser are both former Orbex employees and experienced aerospace engineers. In August, they welcomed the founder and former CEO of Orbex, Chris Larmour to the firm as a non-executive director.
 
Founded in 2023, Aurora Avionics has rapidly established itself as a leading innovator in the aerospace sector. The latest investment, finalised in mid-February, underscores growing confidence from investors in its vision and technological advancements.

Advertisement
Babcock LB
Leonardo’s PRS receiver certified for defence and emergencies across Europe

Defence Security Space

Leonardo’s PRS receiver certified for defence and emergencies across Europe

1 April 2025

Leonardo has designed, developed and built the only receiver specifically conceived for the ultra-secure Public Regulated Service (PRS) - provided by the Galileo satellite navigation service - which is currently accredited for use throughout Europe.

SonoChem System wins UK Space Agency’s Aqualunar Challenge

Space

SonoChem System wins UK Space Agency’s Aqualunar Challenge

28 March 2025

A transformational technology that uses microwaves to defrost and ultrasound to break down contaminants in melted lunar ice to provide clean, drinkable water for astronauts - SonoChem System by Naicker Scientific - has won the UK Space Agency-funded Aqualunar Challenge.

Saxavord Spaceport partners with West of Scotland Space Cluster

Space

Saxavord Spaceport partners with West of Scotland Space Cluster

27 March 2025

SaxaVord Spaceport, the UK’s first fully licensed vertical launch spaceport and the West of Scotland Space Cluster, the UK’s newest regional space cluster, have announced a strategic partnership aimed at advancing Scotland’s position as a global leader in space exploration and technology.

Cranfield Alumni win two British Council Study UK Alumni Awards

Security Space Events

Cranfield Alumni win two British Council Study UK Alumni Awards

26 March 2025

Cranfield Alumni Debora Comparin and Dr Raúl González Muñoz were named as winners in the 2025 British Council Study UK Alumni Awards for France at a ceremony in Paris on 13th March.

Advertisement
ODU RT
ADS appoints Kata Escott as Vice President for Space

Space

ADS appoints Kata Escott as Vice President for Space

21 March 2025

ADS, the UK trade association for the aerospace, defence, security and space, has announced the appointment of Kata Escott, UK Managing Director and Head of Country at Airbus Defence and Space, as its new Vice President for Space.

ALL.SPACE

Space

ALL.SPACE's Hydra terminals deployed

19 March 2025

ALL.SPACE has announced the first operational deployments of its Hydra 2 (formerly known as S2000) and Hydra 4 terminals, now delivered to the US Navy and US Army.

Advertisement
ODU RT