Vaya Space has secured a multi-launch contract to deploy up to 250 satellites for Space Telecommunications, Inc.’s small-satellite constellation using its Dauntless rocket, with launches starting in 2027.

“Today’s announcement is validation of the hard work of our entire team and a testament to the vision of our partners at Space Telecommunications,” said Kevin Lowdermilk, Vaya Space CEO. “This collaboration underscores the transformative potential of hybrid propulsion in shaping the future of satellite launch and space exploration.” 

Who Is Vaya Space?

Vaya Space a space and defense company, was founded in 2017 by Sid Gutierrez, the former Space Shuttle Commander and NASA’s first US-born Hispanic astronaut as Rocket Crafters, based in Cocoa. Since then, the company has developed a hybrid propulsion system and rocket technologies that are non-explosive, non-toxic, using solid rocket fuel is produced from 99% recycled post-industrial thermoplastics.

The company’s Dauntless Block I is a ~60-foot (18.3) two-stage rocket, and is about the same size as a Rocket Lab Electron. It is planned to be able to launch at least 500 kilograms to orbit, versus 320 kilograms for Electron to Low-Earth Orbit.

Unlike Electron, a kerolox (kerosene-liquid oxygen system), Vaya’s Vortex solid rocket motors make Dauntless a nearly portable system that can be launched virtually anywhere. Dauntless is planned to launch for the first time in 2026. The company plans to launch from LC-13 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.

Vaya also has a Dauntless Block II in development, which will increase the maximum payload to orbit to at least 1100 kilograms, giving the system many more mission applications for which it will be suitable.

Comments On The New Contract

“Working with Vaya Space ensures our constellation will achieve the highest level of precision and reliability, which is critical to our mission of connecting communities worldwide,” Tae Oh, Founder of Space Telecommunications. 

“This partnership represents a pivotal moment for both companies,” said Mary Baldino, Director of Sales and Marketing at Vaya Space. “Our affordable and reliable hybrid rocket technology positions Dauntless to meet the growing demands of satellite constellations like Space Telecommunications’, ensuring timely, precise deployment and maximum operational efficiency.” 

“The launch campaign will mark a significant milestone in transitioning Dauntless from its inaugural mission to a regular launch cadence,” said Vaya Chairman Sid Gutierrez. “Designed, built, and tested on Florida’s Space Coast, Dauntless and its hybrid propulsion system are designed to bring simplicity, safety, affordability, and reliability to orbital launch.”