Dawn Aerospace launches $30m Aurora spaceplane for civilian ownership

In a bold move that could redefine private spaceflight, Dawn Aerospace has officially opened consumer sales for its sleek suborbital spaceplane, the Aurora. For the first time, individuals, governments, and spaceports can buy a vehicle capable of reaching the edge of space, without relying on the builder to operate it.

Headquartered in the Netherlands and New Zealand, the company is offering the Aurora for an estimated $30 million per unit, with first deliveries scheduled for 2027. Unlike traditional aerospace firms that retain ownership and control, Dawn’s model hands the keys directly to buyers, ushering in a new era for high-altitude access.

The Aurora can reach an altitude of 328,000 feet (62 miles), crossing the Kármán line, widely regarded as the boundary of space. It can travel at Mach 3.5, carry payloads up to 22 pounds, and complete multiple flights per day thanks to its 4-hour turnaround time. Its fixed-wing design means it takes off and lands like a traditional aircraft, removing the need for complex launch infrastructure.

The spaceplane has already set records in testing. In November 2024, it reached 82,500 feet at Mach 1.12, breaking a 49-year climb-rate record once held by the F-15 Streak Eagle. “It’s been over a century since commercial airlines began,” said CEO Stefan Powell. “Now it’s time to launch the first spaceline.”

This move could democratise access to near space, enabling scientific missions, rapid earth observation, and high-altitude training programs without needing to partner with space agencies. With compact payload capabilities and rapid deployment, Aurora may also appeal to universities, research labs, and defense organizations seeking flexible suborbital access.

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