The first-ever European micro-launcher rocket tests are set to begin in Scotland.
Small satellite launch firm Orbex, has announced the Prime orbital space rocket tests will launch from Space Hub Sutherland, in the Highlands.
The company recently revealed the new test launch platform in Kinloss, close to their headquarters at Forres in Moray.
It is the first orbital space pad to be built in the UK for more than half a century and the company's rocket is now the first 'micro-launcher' developed in Europe to reach this stage of "technical readiness".
They will now begin testing with the new rockets using "dress rehearsal" launches to help develop their launch procedures.
Just 19 metres long, the rockets are powered by seven engines, come in two stages and are thought to be the "most environmentally friendly" rockets in the world.
Josef Aschbacher, director general at the European Space Agency (ESA), said: “I am deeply impressed with the speed at which the Orbex Prime rocket was developed. It is the first full orbital micro launcher in Europe.
“But I am equally impressed by the low carbon footprint technology applied. My sincere congratulations to the whole Orbex team for this impressive achievement.”
To reduce its carbon emissions significantly, the space firm stated each rocket will use special bio-fuel, which it hopes will lead to 96% less emissions than rockets using traditional fossil fuels.
Manufactured in the UK and Denmark, the micro-launcher is designed to transport small satellites weighing around 150kg to low Earth orbit.
The six engines on the first stage of the rocket will propel the vehicle through the atmosphere to an altitude of around 80km.
The single-engine on the second stage of the rocket will complete the journey to Low Earth Orbit (LEO), allowing the release of the small commercial satellites into Earth’s orbit.
UK Science Minister George Freeman said: “This is a hugely exciting time for the UK space and satellite sector as we count down to the first satellite launches from UK spaceports.
“Orbex Prime is a remarkable feat of engineering from a British rocket company, pioneering more sustainable and innovative fuels that cut carbon emissions.
“It is also fantastic to see Moray based Orbex creating more high-quality jobs, demonstrating the value of our thriving space sector to support emerging clusters of innovation to help level up the whole of the UK.”
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