Virgin Galactic has announced the completion of its new manufacturing facility in Phoenix, where it will assemble the next-generation Delta spaceships set to launch from Spaceport America in southern New Mexico.
This development comes on the heels of Virgin Galactic’s successful spaceflight last month, marking its second trip to space in 2024 and the 12th overall since July 2021. However, the company plans to retire the current VSS Unity spaceship and pause all spaceflights from New Mexico until the Delta ship is ready.
The Phoenix facility features two hangars with multiple bays, designed to enhance flexibility in the construction and testing of the new spacecraft. Virgin Galactic expects the Delta spaceship to be completed by the first quarter of 2025. Once finished, the spacecraft will undergo ground testing in Phoenix before being transported by Virgin Galactic’s mothership to Spaceport America for air tests. The company anticipates resuming commercial operations in 2026.
Virgin Galactic’s unique spaceflight process involves a mothership taking off from a runway at Spaceport America with the spaceship attached. Once reaching approximately 50,000 feet, the spaceship detaches, ignites its rocket motors, and propels into suborbital space.
“The completion of our new manufacturing facility is a crucial milestone in the development of our next-generation fleet, essential for scaling and profitability,” said Virgin Galactic CEO Michael Colglazier. “Tooling for final assembly will begin arriving in the coming months, with assembly expected to start in Q1 2025.”
How Will the New Mexico Borderplex Be Affected
The new Delta spaceship is designed to carry up to six private passengers, compared to Unity’s four, and can fly up to eight missions per month. This increase in capacity is expected to significantly boost both space access and the revenue New Mexico receives from spaceflights.
Scott McLaughlin, executive director of Spaceport America, highlighted the importance of Virgin Galactic’s launches, stating, “Virgin Galactic launches are the most important and the biggest things we do.”
During the pause in Virgin Galactic’s operations, Spaceport America is anticipated to see a decrease in activity and revenue. However, the completion of the Delta spaceship and the potential for more frequent flights will likely lead to a substantial increase in the Spaceport’s revenue. Additionally, Spaceport America hosts other customers and tenants, ensuring continued activity even during Virgin Galactic’s temporary hiatus.
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