The German company Rocket Factory Augsburg (RFA) has been officially licensed for spaceflight by the UK's Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), paving the way for the first satellite launch from SaxaVord Spaceport in the Shetland Islands.
This regulatory approval marks the final step needed for RFA to move forward with its historic mission, set to make it the first company to conduct a vertical satellite launch from European soil.
RFA plans to launch its 30-meter-tall, three-stage rocket, RFA One, capable of carrying a 1,300kg payload into a sun-synchronous orbit. The inaugural test flight is scheduled for 2025, following delays caused by a fire and explosion during a static test of the rocket's first stage last year.
Jorn Spurmann, RFA's Chief Commercial Officer, described the licensing as a "groundbreaking moment for RFA and for Europe's space industry." He emphasized that this achievement represents not only a regulatory milestone but also a significant step towards independent and competitive space access for Europe. Spurmann added that RFA's efforts aim to position Europe as a leader in space exploration and commercialisation, enabling cost-effective and flexible launches from mainland Europe.
SaxaVord Spaceport, located on Unst, the northernmost of the Shetland Islands, has already received its spaceport and range control licences, solidifying its role as a key player in Europe's burgeoning space sector. The planned launch in 2025 will mark a new era for European space exploration.
Rob Bishton, Chief Executive of the CAA, highlighted the historical importance of this development, calling it "a new era for aerospace" and a critical milestone for the UK. He credited extensive work behind the scenes to ensure the appropriate safety and environmental measures were in place.
Scottish Business Minister Richard Lochhead celebrated the achievement as a major breakthrough for Scotland's space sector. He noted that Scotland, already a leader in satellite manufacturing, is now poised to take the next step in launching satellites and leveraging the data they provide. Lochhead commended the efforts of SaxaVord and RFA, as well as Scotland's space entrepreneurs, for positioning the country as one of Europe's leading space nations. He reaffirmed the Scottish Government's commitment to supporting the sector and unlocking its economic potential.
The licensing of RFA's mission marks a significant step forward for the European space industry and sets the stage for a new era of innovation and competition in satellite launches.
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