Approval has been granted for the inaugural UK launch of a conventional “vertical” rocket.
The pivotal authorization from the air safety authority has moved the nation closer to witnessing its first launch on British ground.
The German firm Rocket Factory Augsburg (RFA) announced it had obtained a launch license from the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and will proceed with a test flight from Scotland later this year.
The CAA has previously approved the SaxaVord Spaceport, located far north of Shetland, where the company plans to conduct the launch.
This authorization includes both their ground operations and the capability to ensure public safety by restricting access to dangerous zones along the rocket’s flight trajectory.
Additionally, earlier on Thursday, Jeff Bezos’ Blue Origin rocket achieved a successful launch, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the race within the commercial space sector.
Jorn Spurmann, co-founder of RFA, expressed that the CAA’s ruling is a significant advancement toward “independent, competitive and sustainable” access to space in Europe.
“This represents a transformative moment for RFA and for Europe’s space sector,” Mr. Spurmann remarked.
He further stated: “By facilitating economical and versatile launches from continental Europe, we are establishing a foundation for a new era of space exploration and commercialization, ensuring that Europe remains at the leading edge of the global space endeavor.”
Beer and robotic welding
The rocket, designated RFA ONE, incorporates parts from various industries to minimize expenses.
This includes utilizing the same stainless steel found in beer storage containers and components usually associated with welding robots.
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Nevertheless, despite the recent approval, RFA encounters several challenges ahead.
A test of its engines last year concluded in a dramatic explosion at the spaceport.
As a result, the first stage of the rocket has been re-engineered, and another full “hot fire” test on the launch pad is anticipated in the upcoming weeks.
Matt Archer from the UK Space Agency noted, “This license approval signifies a pivotal moment.”
Rob Bishton, the chief executive of the CAA, emphasized, “This marks a new chapter for the aerospace sector, and the issuance of the first vertical launch license from UK territory moves us towards a historic milestone for the country.”
“This license is the result of substantial effort behind the scenes to implement the necessary safety and environmental protocols prior to the launch.”
