Shetland becomes the UK's pioneering site for vertical rocket launches

The SaxaVord Spaceport in the Shetland Islands has been granted approval by the Civil Aviation Authority to become the UK's first spaceport for vertical rocket launches. The spaceport, located on the small island of Unst, will begin launches in 2024 and will be the first fully-licensed spaceport in Western Europe capable of launching vertically into orbit. It will allow for up to 30 launches per year, transporting satellites and other payloads into space. The site is currently being utilized by various launch operators from around the world who are developing rockets. German rocket company HyImpulse plans to attempt sub-orbital launches from the site starting in August, with full orbital launches expected in 2025. Other companies such as Rocket Factory Augsburg, Lockheed Martin/ABL Space Systems, and Skyrora also have plans for orbital launches in the future. The SaxaVord Spaceport, which was initially purchased by Frank and Debbie Strang 15 years ago with the intention of turning it into an eco-tourism attraction, is co-owned by the Strangs. The granting of the license is seen as a significant milestone for the UK space sector. The UK's space industry is estimated to be worth £17.5 billion and supports thousands of jobs. The SaxaVord Spaceport's licensing announcement is expected to boost Shetland's economy and establish the UK as a leader in spaceflight innovation. The UK Space Agency has also provided funding of over £6.7 million to support Scotland's spaceport ambitions, with several other spaceports in development across the country.