Virgin Orbit ‘pauses’ operations in wake of UK space launch failure

Staff reportedly furloughed as California firm announces ‘operational pause’

Virgin Orbit has “paused” its operations to deal with a funding crisis, weeks after its failed UK space launch from Cornwall.

The California-based company has faced financial issues since January’s failure, as well as questions about the damage it might have done to Britain’s plans to become a space hub.

It did not confirm reports staff have been furloughed while it seeks a cash lifeline.