Background:

Pulsar Fusion is a UK-based aerospace company founded by Richard Dinan in 2011, specialising in cutting-edge rocket systems. Having worked with them on several projects over the years, we were excited when they approached us again to help showcase their latest innovation.

But their new project, the Sunbird rocket, was unlike anything we had previously worked on. It reflected Pulsar’s wider ambition: developing a nuclear fusion rocket capable of redefining space travel and drastically reducing mission times to Mars.

The Sunbird had been a concept in development for over a decade, and it was finally ready for its public debut. Pulsar wanted maximum media coverage, and after years of research and engineering, we knew a bulletproof PR strategy was essential.

With space and tech media constantly pitched ambitious projects, standing out would be a challenge. The story needed to clearly convey what makes the Sunbird truly unique, while also highlighting the expertise of the Pulsar team to position them as serious innovators in the aerospace sector.

Strategy:

We collaborated on a meticulous press release, complete with images and video, to pitch ahead of the Space-Comm EXPO in London, where Richard Dinan would speak publicly about the Sunbird for the first time.

As the UK’s leading space industry event, the Expo attracted key journalists, so we ensured Richard’s appearance was highlighted in the release – a prime opportunity to position Pulsar Fusion as a serious innovator in space technology.

The release featured a strong hook, emphasising the Sunbird’s potential to redefine space travel. Since the rocket was still a concept, images and video were essential, giving journalists a clear view of the intended final design.

Targeting the right media was critical. Our team identified space and tech journalists who had previously covered Pulsar and similar projects, and we also included business writers with a focus on technology advancements to broaden coverage opportunities.

Alongside the release, we pitched Richard for interviews and invited journalists to meet him at the Expo, providing direct expert insight into the Sunbird from the founder himself.

Results:

We achieved 39 items of coverage for the Sunbird project which included multiple interview opportunities. 

Here are just some of the publications the Sunbird was featured in:

• The Express, 89
• Interesting Engineering, DR 81
• Business Weekly, DR 66
• Aerospace Manufacturing, DR 63
• ADS Advance, DR 53

This generated strong interest in the Sunbird and significantly raised awareness of Pulsar Fusion, positioning them as a serious contender in space innovation. The interviews also strengthened relationships with key journalists, laying the groundwork for ongoing, credible media coverage as Pulsar continues to share future developments.

Client feedback/testimonial:

Richard Dinan, Pulsar Fusion’s Founder:

“There are a lot of lazy PR outfits about. I have seldom found one with the work ethic of Motive. When they push a campaign, phones ring everywhere.”

Want results like these?

Email us with the goals you have in mind - we’d love to work with you! hello@motivepr.co.uk