Portal Space Systems To Build Larger Factory For Supernova Vehicle

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PARIS — Portal Space Systems will create a second factory to scale up production of high-performance in-space vehicles as it gears up for initial test flights in 2026.

The company announced at the Paris Air Show June 17 that it will establish a second factory, five kilometers from its current facilities in Bothell, Washington, for its Supernova vehicle.

The new factory, spanning more than 4,600 square meters, is scheduled to open in late 2026.

The second facility will allow Portal to produce one Supernova spacecraft a month starting in 2027. Supernova is the spacecraft the company is developing that uses solar thermal propulsion to provide both high thrust and high delta V, or change in velocity.

"By expanding our footprint in Bothell, we're doubling down on local talent, proximity to core operations, and a growing aerospace ecosystem supported by state leadership," Jeff Thornburg, chief executive of Portal Space Systems, said in a statement.

The contract was announced at the Washington state pavilion in the sprawling exhibit halls of the air show.

"Portal Space Systems represents the kind of bold, future-facing innovation we're proud to see growing in Washington," Joe Nguyen, director of the state's Department of Commerce, said in the statement. "Their approach to in-space maneuverability not only advances the frontier of space technology but it also strengthens the state's position as a hub for world-class talent and national space infrastructure."

The choice of Momentus for that test flight was surprising as that company has not flown a mission since 2023, delaying future Vigoride flights in early 2024 as the publicly traded company faced a cash crunch.