Portal Space Systems advances rideshare satellite access

Portal Space Systems is developing rideshare satellite launches with SpaceX to lower costs for space-based services.

Portal Space Systems has secured a 2028 Falcon 9 launch contract with SpaceX for its first Supernova spacecraft, partnering with Maverick Space Systems to sell rideshare payloads. This arrangement enables 225+ satellites to be launched on future Supernova missions, using solar thermal propulsion for high maneuverability. The Starburst-1 spacecraft (an ESPA-class satellite) is scheduled for October launch on SpaceX’s Bandwagon-5 mission. Portal raised $50 million in April and plans 80-100 employees by year-end. However, SpaceX may end dedicated rideshare programs beyond late 2028 or early 2029, and Portal’s timeline claims are not confirmed by SpaceX. Cheaper satellite launches could expand access to global internet and disaster monitoring services through the THE COMMONS and KNOWLEDGE sectors once operational. The current phase remains in development with unverified capacity details for secondary payloads.

Source: SpaceNews