Virgin Orbit shares fall to earth as Branson's satellite firm pauses operations      

Company has furloughed nearly all its employees in bid to give company time to finalise new investment plan, chief says

Virgin Orbit said it was exploring strategic opportunities and was in talks for potential funding after a cash crunch forced the satellite launch company to pause operations.

Billionaire Richard Branson's Virgin Orbit said it was exploring strategic opportunities and was in talks for potential funding after a cash crunch forced the satellite launch company to pause operations. 

The operational halt is expected to continue until March 21, said Virgin Orbit, which has furloughed nearly all its employees.