The Exploration Company acquires European Astrotech, scaling execution capabilities across the space sector
30th June 2026
Munich / Westcott – 30 June 2026 — The Exploration Company (TEC) today announces the acquisition of European Astrotech Limited (EAL), a UK‑based specialist in spacecraft propulsion services, propellant chemistry, and launch site fuelling operations.
Founded in 2007 and headquartered at Westcott Venture Park in the United Kingdom, EAL supports dozens of institutional, commercial, and scientific missions, providing propulsion and fuelling services. Its work spans propellant compatibility analysis, fuelling campaign execution, launch site operations, and propulsion qualification support.
EAL will continue to operate as an individual entity, and will continue to serve institutional and commercial customers across the space sector. EAL’s leadership team, existing contracts, service obligations, and operational agreements with customers will remain in place.
Born out of an existing partnership to support propulsion systems for TEC’s Nyx capsule, the acquisition comes as the growth of the space sector is placing increasing demands on experienced, repeatable execution across propulsion and launch readiness.
The acquisition strengthens TEC’s commitment to the UK, and expands its industrial footprint. EAL and TEC plan on building additional test benches at EAL’s Westcott facilities, supporting and accelerating Nyx propulsion development.
"We are delighted to welcome European Astrotech Limited to The Exploration Company family. I have great respect for the team assembled by Chris and Sam, and the business they have built worldwide. We plan to further grow European Astrotech launch operations and testing activities, as well as expand the Westcott facilities to include new test benches for The Exploration Company. European Astrotech Limited is a strong and recognized brand. For this reason, it will remain independently managed and continue to serve all its clients with dedication and professionalism." said Helene Huby, CEO & Founder of The Exploration Company.
"We are thrilled to join forces with The Exploration Company, and begin a new chapter for our company, employees, and customers. By bringing together our complementary strengths and shared commitment to customer success, this acquisition creates exciting opportunities for growth, innovation and investment. We are proud of what we've built and look forward to achieving even more together," said Sam Green, CRO of European Astrotech.
“Our shared values and vision made this an easy decision. It enables us to expand our infrastructure to support a diverse set of missions and programs, including the Nyx program, to advance progress in space.” added Chris Smith, Co Founder and CTO of European Astrotech.
