In a landmark move for Britain’s space ambitions, Scotland-based Skyrora has become the first UK company to receive a domestic space launch licence, marking a major leap toward vertical satellite launches from UK soil.
Key Highlights:
- Skyrora, founded in 2017, is now approved for up to 16 launches per year, pending further clearance by the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
- Launches will take place from SaxaVord Spaceport in the Shetland Islands – the UK’s first vertical launch site.
- This follows SaxaVord’s key safety licence approval in 2023.
Bigger Picture:
- The global space economy is forecast to top $1 trillion by 2030, largely driven by satellite demand.
- The UK already builds more satellites than any country outside the U.S. and employs 45,000+ people in the sector.
- A failed horizontal launch from Newquay in 2023 had dampened momentum—Skyrora’s success could reignite it.
Voices from the Top:
“Granting a home-grown company its launch licence is a major milestone for our space sector and our nation.”
– Rob Bishton, Chief Executive, CAA
“Skyrora is proud to be leading efforts that enable launch activity from the UK.”
– Volodymyr Levykin, CEO, Skyrora
Next Steps Before Launch:
- Final insurance arrangements
- Data-sharing agreements with the UK government
- Airspace permissions from international bodies