Los Angeles Startup Inversion Aims for Speedy Orbital Cargo Transport

A small aerospace startup based in Los Angeles, known as Inversion, is developing a spacecraft named Arc, designed to transport cargo to any location on Earth in approximately one hour. This innovative project aims to establish a new orbital transport network that leverages advancements in space technology, robotics, and artificial intelligence, positioning itself as a competitor to well-known figures like Elon Musk.

Inversion’s Arc is envisioned as a compact spacecraft, approximately 2.4 meters tall and 1.2 meters wide. Unlike traditional aircraft that require extensive runways, Arc will remain in orbit as a delivery capsule, ready to deploy when needed. Upon activation, it will descend through the atmosphere and land safely on various surfaces, including soil, snow, or water, utilizing parachute technology.

The primary objective of the Arc spacecraft is to expedite deliveries, especially in high-stakes situations where traditional shipping methods are inadequate. In a world marked by conflict and humanitarian crises, the ability to deliver essential supplies quickly could prove vital. Inversion believes that Arc could revolutionize logistics by providing a new model centered around orbital infrastructure, enabling rapid transportation to nearly any location on the globe in under an hour.

Progress and Future Plans

Inversion, which launched formally in October 2025, has made notable strides in its development process. The team, comprised of 25 employees with expertise in space engineering, built an initial prototype named Ray for about $1 million. This cost-effective approach suggests that advanced orbital transport systems can be developed without the extensive budgets typically associated with aerospace projects.

The company plans to conduct testing of the Arc spacecraft in 2026. These tests will be crucial in determining if Arc can successfully navigate the full mission profile, which includes launching, orbiting, reentering the atmosphere, and executing a controlled landing while transporting cargo.

Challenges Ahead

Despite its ambitious goals, Inversion faces several challenges, including regulatory approvals, safety inspections, and flight tests. Potential clients will weigh factors like cost, reliability, and safety when considering whether to utilize Arc or stick with existing transportation methods.

The excitement surrounding Inversion’s plans signals a potential shift in the logistics industry. If successful, Arc may provide an alternative transportation option when conventional means, such as trucks, ships, and planes, are unable to meet urgent delivery demands. As trials commence, the industry will be closely watching to see if 2026 becomes the year that orbital transport transforms cargo delivery as we know it.