- SaxaVord: UK’s first vertical spaceport
- Launches expected in 2024
- Shetland Islands, significant development
Although Cornwall Spaceport obtained the first licensed spaceport in the United Kingdom, SaxaVord’s licence grants it the capability to accommodate vertical launches of aircraft-borne rockets instead of horizontal launches.
The first UK vertical rocket spaceport licence went out to the northernmost Shetland Islands.
In 2024, the SaxaVord Spaceport on the small island of Unst will be able to conduct its inaugural launches, as the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has issued the necessary authorization.
The regulator confirmed that the privately owned spaceport complied with the safety and environmental prerequisites for vertical space launches.
Since 2004, Frank and Debbie Strang, husband and wife, have owned the former RAF base situated on a secluded peninsula in Unst.
Licensed for a maximum of 30 launches annually, it serves the needs of organizations seeking to deploy satellites into sun-synchronous, polar orbits.
Construction of the spaceport’s three launch sites and rocket assembly hangar has cost £30 million.
In 2024, Rocket Factory Augsburg and HyImpulse, both German organizations, intend to conduct launches from SaxaVord.
In addition, the couple intends to construct a hotel and visitor centre in SaxaVord.
According to Mr Strang, the recently obtained licence positions the United Kingdom “exactly ahead of the European Space Race.”
“I compare it to Hillary’s ascent of Mount Everest,” he said. “It conveys a message and generates a positive emotional response.
And it demonstrates to the international community that the United Kingdom takes the space economy seriously.
It concerns foreign direct investment, and each of our clients is from a different country.” Education and the supply chain are at issue.
It is enormous, and the upcoming year will determine the United Kingdom’s position in the global space industry.
“A momentous era-defining occasion”
Tim Johnson, the CAA’s director of space regulation, stated, The issuance of SaxaVord’s licence is a watershed moment for the United Kingdom’s space industry.
This development signifies a fresh start for the United Kingdom’s space programme. Missiles originating in Scotland may launch satellites into orbit.
We are performing critical work to ensure that space activities in the United Kingdom are sustainable and secure for all.
Mr Strang described the license’s issuance as “historic.” He further stated, “Our group is extremely honoured that the government has placed this responsibility on us to manage a multi-launch, multi-disciplinary, and complex spaceport. Each member of our team takes this duty extremely seriously.”
Although much remains to be accomplished, this is an excellent way to conclude the year and enter the holiday season.
