February 2026

1. 18 Wed
   Orbex collapse fails to halt progress for UK domestic launch capability

   NASASpaceFlight provides broader context: RFA One (German/UK) advancing pad tests at SaxaVord in Scotland targeting maiden flight H2 2026, which would be first orbital launch from European soil (separate from Isar's Andøya attempt). ESA's European Launcher Challenge remains funded with remaining participants progressing. Orbex's IP and Sutherland site remain in play for creditors.

   Orbex Files for Administration — UK's Flagship Small Launcher Collapses After Failed Series D
2. 12 Thu
   Inaugural Ariane 64 launches Amazon Leo satellites from Kourou

   NASASpaceFlight's detailed coverage of the VA267 / LE-01 mission. Liftoff at 16:45 UTC Feb 12. First Ariane 64 flight, sixth Ariane 6 overall, first with long 20m fairing. 32 satellites deployed at ~290 miles altitude, 1h54m after liftoff. First of 18 Ariane 6 launches contracted to Amazon Leo. Amazon separately confirmed 10 more Falcon 9 launches and increase in firm New Glenn orders (12→24) to accelerate deployment ahead of FCC deadline.

   Ariane 64 Maiden Launch — LE-01 Deploys 32 Amazon Leo Satellites, Europe's Heaviest Payload to Orbit

Headlines link to nasaspaceflight.com. Summaries are ours, 1–2 lines; read the full story at the source.