Skyrora – The NEN – North Edinburgh News

US Chief of Space Operations visits British rocket company Skyrora

Last week, the first Chief of Space Operations for the United States, General John W. “Jay” Raymond, toured the facilities of Skyrora as US interest grows in the British rocket company.

The landmark visit will bolster the key space relationship between the UK and US ahead of Skyrora’s plans to be the first UK company to complete a vertical launch from home soil in 2023.

As a four-star general and the most senior military leader in charge of the US Space Force, General Raymond serves as a military advisor to the US Secretary of Defence, National Security Council, and President.

The position of Chief of Space Operations was created in December 2019, with General Raymond announced as the inaugural postholder. General Raymond’s visit took place shortly after Skyrora’s successful second stage static fire test of its orbital launch vehicle, Skyrora XL.

The test was one of the key momentum-building milestones discussed during the visit as Skyrora continues its journey to establish sovereign launch capabilities for the UK. While on site, General Raymond was able to witness the UK’s launch industry capabilities first hand.

General John Raymond, US Space Force Chief of Space Operations General, said: “Now, more than ever, international cooperation in space is critically important.

“And the proliferation of commercial space efforts helps all spacefaring nations by driving costs down. I appreciate the fantastic tour of the Skyrora facilities and the opportunity to spend time with the impressive team there.”

The UK Government’s recently released Defence Space Strategy identifies launch as a core capability within the Government’s vision to position the domestic defence sector as a global actor in the space domain. Britain has historically relied on the US’s extensive launch heritage to provide assured launch capabilities to the nation’s defence sector.

With the recent announcement from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) that Launch Collision Avoidance Analysis (LCOLA) will be carried out by the US Space Force’s 18th Space Defense Squadron, General Raymond’s visit also encourages contiguity between UK space players and the US to prioritise safe launch activity.

General Raymond visited Skyrora’s new rocket facility in Cumbernauld, the largest of its kind in the UK, where three launch vehicles are currently in production. Housing the largest hybrid 3D printer in Europe, Skyprint 2, the facility enables Skyrora to undertake more of the manufacturing of its rocket parts in the UK.

Lee Rosen, Chief Operations Officer at Skyrora, said: “General Raymond’s visit on behalf of the US Space Force has been a valuable opportunity to provide insight into Skyrora’s rapid, responsive technical capabilities – such as our mobile launch complex and third stage technology, which can contribute to several key space applications, including in-orbit spacecraft servicing and space domain awareness.

“These, combined with Skyrora’s sustainably minded focus, will enable key defence activities within space for the benefit of all.”

Volodymyr Levykin, CEO at Skyrora, said: “This visit comes at a pivotal time as we come to learn the importance of sovereign launch from the first commercial space war in Ukraine.

“Skyrora looks forward to working with the UK Government to further this alliance and achieve greater levels of investment and support for the UK space sector as we continue our laser focus of being the first UK company to conduct a vertical launch to orbit from British soil.”

Skyrora test sees rocket launch move a step closer

The first vertical rocket launch from British soil moved a vital step closer this month as Edinburgh’s UK rocket company Skyrora successfully completed the static fire test of the second stage of its flagship Skyrora XL orbital vehicle.

The monumental event, at Discover Space UK at Machrihanish Airbase on the Mull of Kintyre, was the largest integrated stage test in the UK for 50 years, since the days of the Black Arrow and Blue Streak rockets which were cancelled in the seventies without ever going into production.

The test at the Scottish base was made possible as a result of funding received by Skyrora as part of the European Space Agency’s Commercial Space Transportation Programme as well as support from the UK Space Agency,

It involved hot firing the second stage engine of Skyrora XL to prove the vehicle’s operational capability for its intended payloads and to ensure that its performance met all the design requirements.

The test was successfully completed with all systems nominal throughout the 20-second burn and the single 70kN liquid engine operated within its design margins and achieved the expected thrust which will carry it into space.

The latest achievement moves the company another step towards commercial operation, and its inaugural orbital launch is now scheduled for 2023 from the SaxaVord Space Centre on Unst, the most northerly of the Shetland Islands.

Volodymyr Levykin, Founder and CEO of Edinburgh-based Skyrora, said: “With the UK striving to capture a 10% share of the global space market by 2030, the successful Skyrora XL second stage static fire test puts Skyrora on track to become a key part of the UK’s new space industry as the first British company to conduct vertical launch from UK soil.

“Skyrora now has purpose-built rocket manufacturing and testing facilities in the UK – as well as the largest 3D printer of its kind, which we are using to produce rocket engine components.

“We recognise the value that a strong domestic space industry will bring to the UK, and we will continue to spearhead these efforts to make the UK a player to be reckoned with globally.”

The successful test is the latest important stride for Skyrora, following the opening last month of a new manufacturing and production facility, the largest of its kind in the UK, in Cumbernauld, North Lanarkshire, and the recent opening of an engine test facility in Midlothian.

The new facility in Cumbernauld allows the company to concentrate its launch development practices in custom-built domestic facilities, further strengthening Skyrora’s status as the leader in the UK space race.

Colonel Lee Rosen (USAF, Retd.), Skyrora COO and former SpaceX Vice-President, said: “The static fire test looks, sounds and feels a lot like a rocket launch, but without lifting off.

“This hugely successful test was a definitive demonstration of our mobility and flexibility. The Skyrora team went from clean tarmac to a full static fire test in just 2.5 days, bringing all the necessary equipment with them.”

Matt Archer, Director of Commercial Spaceflight at the UK Space Agency, said: “As we soar towards the UK’s first commercial space launches, these achievements showcase our rapidly growing capabilities, and the increasing range of expertise that can make the UK a highly attractive destination for launch activities in Europe.

“We’ll continue to support the development of new launch infrastructure and technology and look forward to following the next steps of Skyrora’s journey to orbit.”

Thilo Kranz, Commercial Space Transportation Programme Manager at the European Space Agency, said: “It has been excellent to witness the successful second stage test for the Skyrora XL launch vehicle.

“This test is also an important step towards ESA’s objective of fostering new commercial European launch services in the near future.”

Andy Grey, Member of the Board at Discover Space UK, said: “Discover Space UK is delighted to host exciting companies such as Skyrora, which are developing new capabilities within the UK’s emerging spaceflight industry, as part of UK ambitions to be a science and technology superpower.

“DSUK wants to see the future of science and industry coming to Machrihanish and benefiting from our fantastic infrastructure and landscape.”

Machrihanish Airbase is a former military base which hosted a US Air Force detachment of strategic bombers during WW2 and was used by RAF and NATO air forces until 1997.

The airstrip at Machrihanish was also a designated emergency landing site during NASA’s space shuttle era.

Skyrora opens the UK’s largest rocket engine manufacturing facility to bolster British launch capabilities

Edinburgh-based space company gears up for launch, with production commencing on three rockets at Cumbernauld facility

UK rocket company Skyrora has taken another important stride towards achieving a sovereign orbital launch from British soil by opening a new manufacturing and production facility, the largest of its kind in the UK.

After recently opening its engine test facility in Midlothian, this new facility in Cumbernauld allows the company to concentrate its launch development practices in custom-built domestic facilities, further strengthening Skyrora’s status as the leader in the UK space race.

The production of two Skyrora vehicles has already commenced at the Cumbernauld site, which will increase up to 16 per year once mass production begins. The site boasts unique capabilities for space infrastructure in the UK, as certain tests that would typically be outsourced to facilities in other countries can now be conducted domestically.

For the very first time, the UK has an asset capable of conducting full-stage structural and pressure testing and full-stage functional and cold flow testing. Conducting these tests domestically saves significant time and costs and represents a key advantage for UK space efforts.

As such, the maiden testing of the second stage of the Skyrora XL rocket can now be performed from UK soil, having been fully manufactured and assembled in-house. This includes the assembly of the 70kN engine, the most powerful commercially produced liquid engine in the UK, which has been built using 3D-printed engine components.

A critical milestone for the development of the Skyrora XL, the hot fire testing will see the second stage attached to a stand at the newly opened Midlothian test facility as the engine simulates a real launch. This enables important telemetry data to be collected and analysed on-site. As a three-stage launch vehicle, the second stage of Skyrora XL will start its engines at approximately 62km before releasing the third stage at around 190km for orbital launch.

The Skyrora Vehicle Assembly Building in Cumbernauld consists of 55,000 sq ft of factory floor and office space, along with a 67,000 sq ft yard large enough to contain the entire Skylark L launch complex and future Skyrora XL launch facilities, for rehearsals, integration works, and launch preparation. Altogether, the facility roughly equates to the size of two standard football pitches and can accommodate up to 16 Skyrora XL vehicles for assembly, integration, and launch per annum.

The manufacturing and production site will generate new employment opportunities both in the North Lanarkshire area and in the rest of Scotland, boosting local economic prospects by accommodating up to 100 high-skilled technical and business roles.

Skyrora’s Head of Engineering, Dr Jack James Marlow, said: “This purpose-built manufacturing and assembly site, combined with the Midlothian testing facility, allows Skyrora to take direct charge of the development cycle in-house.

“As a business, we now have a full set of domestic facilities to allow for close control of the quality and rapid development and testing of Skyrora XL ahead of its demo launch.

“The site will also allow us to further optimise manufacturing processes developed by our colleagues in Ukraine and scale-up launch vehicle production in the long term, enabling further expansion and growth in the future.”

Skyrora’s readiness to enter mass production comes at a pivotal time in the UK space race, as the company endeavours to become the first British company to launch a rocket from UK soil with its orbital vehicle, Skyrora XL. By 2030, Skyrora aims to conduct 16 launches per year from Saxavord launch complex in the Shetland Islands alone.

Skyrora founder and CEO Volodymyr Levykin said:“To play a significant role in the emerging global space economy, the UK has to develop sovereign launch capabilities. This isn’t just about offering different locations for launch, but everything that precedes that moment.

“Being able to offer end-to-end domestic capabilities from development, manufacturing, testing, and launch provides the UK with a crucial advantage as it looks to unlock its capabilities and deliver on its potential on the global stage. This crucial asset would not have been possible without the dedication and talent of the entire Skyrora team, both here in Scotland and in Ukraine.”

Levykin continued: “We’re proud to be leading the way for the UK space sector, promoting further STEM job creation that will be vital to the UK Government’s Levelling Up agenda. As outlined in the National Space Strategy, SMEs will be central to the Government’s wider plans for the space sector, and this new site is a prime example of this.

“There is an enormous commercial opportunity to be seized here, and a chance for the UK to play a key strategic role in the new space economy. However, in order to do this, investment is needed at the highest level of Government to support the efforts of private companies, otherwise we risk missing the chance to future-proof the British economy and letting talent slip through our fingers.”

Pamela Humphries, Head of Planning and Regeneration at North Lanarkshire Council, said: “North Lanarkshire is an ideal location for businesses to set up and grow, with excellent transport links, support, and a skilled workforce, and we are very pleased to welcome Skyrora to the area.

“The company operates in a very exciting and dynamic industry and is ambitious for its development, offering many opportunities for other local businesses to provide support services which can only be positive for our local economy.”

The Cumbernauld manufacturing and production facility has been made possible in part by the support and collaboration with the UK Space Agency (UKSA) and the European Space Agency (ESA), who both share in Skyrora’s vision for the future of launch capabilities and assured access to space from these shores.

Ian Annett, Deputy CEO, UK Space Agency said: “As we approach the UK’s first commercial space launch this Summer, Skyrora’s new manufacturing and production facility in Cumbernauld will further enhance the UK’s reputation as Europe’s most attractive destination for launch activities.

“Scotland is home to around one-fifth of all space jobs in the UK and, by harnessing the opportunities provided by commercial spaceflight, we are creating highly skilled jobs and local opportunities in Scotland and across the country.”

Edinburgh’s Skyrora builds the largest 3D printer in Europe

Skyrora has created Skyprint 2, the largest hybrid printer of its kind in Europe, to optimise the speed and efficiency of manufacturing rocket parts. By allowing printing and machining on the same bed, it will drastically reduce process complexity, cost and printing time by around 30% compared to other printers.

Another key advantage of Skyprint 2 is that it can be manufactured via subtraction or addition processes, which means it can repair parts and machine items that were not originally printed.

Following on from Skyprint 1, and when it starts production in Q2, the bespoke Skyprint 2 will offer a cost-effective, bi-metallic, hybrid manufacturing service to meet the growing demand for small satellite launches and enables Skyrora to take full control of the manufacturing process. Skyrora’s vision is to meet this increasing appetite by combining proven technology with cutting-edge innovation in order to create economical, responsive access to space.

Skyprint 2 will use Inconel, a superalloy known for its mechanical strength at high heat which comprises most of the mass of Skyrora’s rocket engines and makes use of the Directed Energy Deposition (DED) process.

This is an additive manufacturing process in which focused thermal energy is used to fuse materials by melting as they are being deposited.

One of the key features of Skyprint 2 is its ‘near net shape’ process of DED, which minimises material usage. Any residual material that would be otherwise lost due to blowout is instead collected and recycled, enabling greater material efficiency and making the manufacturing of parts more sustainable.

With standard, bulk methods of manufacturing Inconel alloy engine parts (oxidation-corrosion-resistant materials well suited for extreme environments subjected to pressure and heat), it can take around 10 weeks from concept to production, not to mention quality modifications.

Using Skyprint 2, the time needed to manufacture key rocket engine components has been significantly reduced to only two weeks due to 3D printing’s direct forming capabilities. Combined with the increased design dexterity – allowing for greater changes in design between iterations – Skyprint 2 is radically altering what is possible in hybrid manufacturing services.

Volodymyr Levykin, Skyrora’s founder and CEO, said: “Skyprint 2 reinforces our ambitions to not only be the first company to launch from UK soil, but also to do so in the most sustainable way possible.

“By taking greater control of the design and manufacturing process of our parts using our custom-built industry-leading 3D printing technology, we are taking another crucial step closer to offering a significant space service from our own soil.

“Creating this cost – and time-effective solution encapsulates the innovation and talent that resides at the heart of the UK space industry. As an asset, Skyprint 2 is a real game-changer – it will transform Skyrora’s operations and expand the limits of what is possible when it comes to space engineering in general.”

Following Skyrora’s announcement in October 2021 of a multi-launch agreement with SaxaVord that will enable the company to complete 16 launches a year by 2030, the ability to fully design and print parts using Skyprint 2 will substantially reduce the timeframe needed for Skyrora to manufacture its rockets from 2022.

Earlier this year, Skyrora also successfully completed trials of the third stage of the Skyrora XL rocket, including its orbital transfer vehicle (OTV) – a vehicle that once in orbit can refire its engines around 15 times to complete tasks such as acting as a space tug or maintenance and de-orbiting of defunct satellites.

The development of Ecosene – a rocket fuel made of otherwise unused plastics – also highlights the sustainable innovations that are at the core of Skyrora’s business as it strives to solve the biggest issues facing the space industry.

Finding Prospero

Skyrora launch mission challenge to seek and de-orbit historic Prospero satellite

Edinburgh-based rocket company Skyrora has called on the UK space industry to support its efforts to find Prospero – the first British satellite to have been launched successfully by a British rocket – and remove it from orbit.

Skyrora CEO Volodymyr Levykin was joined by British astronaut Major Tim Peake (above) in issuing the call to government agencies, space companies, and academia to develop a technical plan to de-orbit the 66kg (145lb) satellite.

Skyrora’s own Space Tug orbital transfer vehicle (OTV) is set to play a significant role in the mission, which could be Skyrora’s first full deployment of its OTV to help address the “space junk” problem.

Prospero was launched on the Black Arrow rocket from Woomera, South Australia on 28 October 1971. Hidden within the fairing, Prospero would be the first British satellite launched from a British rocket. The successful launch stood as testament to British engineering and became a talking point of national pride. In 2018, Skyrora recovered the first stages of Black Arrow-R2 and R3 from its landing site in the South Australian outback.

Half a century later, Prospero continues to orbit over our heads whilst, back on Earth, the UK space sector continues to speak of its significance. Prospero remains the only British satellite launched from a British rocket. The satellite could be heard transmitting on 137.56 MHz as late as 2004. It’s longevity, however, retrospectively serves to represent the importance of de-orbital services.

Speaking at the launch of Finding Prospero, Volodymr Levykin, Skyrora’s founder and CEO, said: “It’s 50 years since the UK launched a British satellite into orbit from a British rocket.

“The UK is a world leader in space technology, and today as a country we are embarking on a new chapter of space innovation. By recovering Prospero, we are not only coming together as a space nation and taking responsibility for what we have launched into orbit, but also confirming our commitment to the sustainable use of outer space.”

Earlier this year, Skyrora successfully completed trials of the third stage of its XL rocket, including its OTV, a vehicle that can refire its engines around 15 times to complete tasks such as de-orbiting defunct satellites. A mission to de-orbit Prospero could be the Space Tug’s first real-world deployment and a demonstration of its long-term potential in removing “space junk”. Space junk – the ever-increasing volume of redundant satellites orbiting Earth – is one of the biggest problems facing the global space industry.

The OTV is just part of Skyrora’s efforts to lead the space industry in sustainability. The company uses 3D printing in the manufacture of its rockets, and has also developed its own green rocket fuel, Ecosene. Made from waste plastic, Ecosene could prevent more than 3,000 tons of unrecyclable plastic going to landfill by 2030.

The launch event was hosted by TV presenter Dallas Campbell and other speakers included ESA Astronaut Major Tim Peake, Black Arrow Engineer Terry Brooke, Senior Advisor Lord David Willetts and Joanne Wheeler, a leading practitioner in satellite regulation.

The mission to retrieve Prospero will also seek to engage and inspire a new generation by shining a spotlight on one of the UK space industry’s greatest achievements.

A number of Year 13 pupils from Allestree Woodlands School in Derby also attended the Finding Prospero launch event.

These students won the European Space Agency’s National Cansat competition, and will represent the UK at the European CanSat competition in Bologna, Italy at the end of June.

Demonstrating responsibility for the unborn and future generations is fundamental to the core values of Skyrora.

‘UK has to stay ahead of the curve’ in global space race – Skyrora

One of the country’s biggest rocket companies has urged the UK to continue investing in its space capabilities in order to establish itself as a bona fide space nation.

Volodymyr Levykin of Edinburgh-based Skyrora, believes continued government commitment is crucial if the industry is not to fall behind other countries and private companies, following the successful rocket launches of the Space X payload and the Chinese manned mission last week.

It comes after the Space industry regulations 2021 were laid before Parliament on 24th May for ratification, promoting its ambition to building spaceports and launch capabilities across the country.

However, Volodymyr believes more needs to be done to keep the UK ahead of the curve in a revamped international space race.

He said: “Last week’s successful launches proved other nations, and private companies are continuing to break ground and develop their launch capabilities. While the new legislative news is welcoming to our industry, more needs to be done to propel the UK as a space nation superpower.

“The possibilities are endless, from developing cutting edge technologies that can produce huge environmental benefits; to boosting an already thriving sector in tourism with investment in rural areas around the country.

“Nevertheless, we are competing against a number of countries and companies abroad, and without continued investment we risk falling behind the competition.”

The new legislation will come into effect this summer, enabling the UK to develop its commercial spaceflight technologies through traditional rockets to high-altitude balloons and spaceplanes.

By 2030 it is estimated more than 17,000 small satellites will be launched by various countries from around the world – which is considerably more than what has been previously launched.

Volodymyr, said: “The UK’s goal is to capture 10% of the global space market by 2030 and this target will create 80,000 new skilled jobs in the UK Space Industry.

“In order to achieve these targets we need to be encouraging and educating our future generations. We all have a profound responsibility to make this happen, however, government backing can help improve awareness that the space industry is a legitimate sector in which young professionals can thrive in.”

The Edinburgh-based firm intends to test launch its Skyrora XL rocket from the UK in 2022. Skyrora XL is a 23-metre, 56-tonne, three-stage rocket capable of carrying up to 315kg into orbit.

The vehicle is on course to be test launched in 2022 from a UK spaceport and the project is set to generate 170 high-skilled jobs.

The company recently secured €3M funding from the European Space Agency, which will be used to complete Skyrora’s XL programme to deliver consistent orbital launches from the UK.

British spaceflight to become reality as government provides launchpad for spaceports

Satellites and rockets could launch from UK soil in 2022, with spaceports planned for Cornwall, Wales and Scotland

Another barrier to space exploration from UK soil was lifted yesterday with spaceports expected to be in operation from next summer.

Developed with the UK Space Agency and the Civil Aviation Authority, new regulations being laid in Parliament today will mean satellites and rockets can launch from UK soil for the first time – with spaceports planned for Cornwall, Wales and Scotland.

Future satellite launches will improve our access to data and communications, and revolutionise services such as satellite navigation and earth observation – enhancing the way we live, work, travel and interact with our planet.

Space exploration has a long history of inspiring us all to consider our impact on the Earth, and access to space is essential as we tackle global environmental issues such as climate change.

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said: “This is a pivotal moment for our spaceflight ambitions. Since the start of the spaceflight programme in 2017, we have been clear that we want to be the first country to launch into orbit from Europe.

“The laying of these regulations puts us firmly on track to see the first UK launches take place from 2022, unlocking a new era in commercial spaceflight for all 4 corners of our nation.”

The legislation, laid just 2 weeks before the G7 summit in Cornwall, will come into force this summer and will help propel the development of commercial spaceflight technologies, from traditional rockets to high-altitude balloons and spaceplanes.

In time, we will also start to see new and emerging space activity – including sub-orbital space tourism and eventually new transport systems such as hypersonic flight, which will dramatically reduce aviation travel times.

UK spaceport launches will help create new jobs and offer economic benefits to communities across the country, as well as inspiring the next generation of space scientists.

Not only will this support our thriving space sector, it will also attract companies from around the globe to come to, and benefit from, these commercial opportunities.

Science Minister Amanda Solloway said: “Continuing to grow our launch capability will help bring jobs and economic benefits across the UK. The Space Industry Regulations we’ve tabled today will create a supportive, attractive and safe environment for commercial spaceflight.

“Today marks another crucial milestone that will enable the first launches from British soil in 2022 and make UK commercial spaceflight a reality.”

Volodymyr Levykin, CEO of Edinburgh-based Skyrora said: “Today the UK moved a step closer to offering launch capabilities within the next year, signalling its intent to continue as a global power in the space economy.

“These regulations will help to unlock the huge economic opportunity that is launch in the UK and provide a number of options to get cutting-edge technology into orbit and create new commercial industries.

“Britain has a long heritage in rocket engineering, from Black Arrow 50 years ago, to the talent spread across the globe today, working in space organisations and private companies. With the steps taken today and different space ports being developed, the UK has an opportunity to bring much of that talent back home and inspire the next generation. As an Edinburgh-based company, Skyrora is proud to be helping new generations of engineers gain vital, practical experience on launch vehicles to help shape the future of commercial space.

“Our Skyrora XL three-stage rocket is on track to be ready for launch in 2022, along with our space tug – which can play a pivotal role in efforts to clear space debris and we’re proud that we’ll be ready to offer these capabilities from UK soil.”

Rocket crash highlights need for Space Tugs

Frightening events like the Chinese rocket which crashed back to Earth illustrate the need for action on ‘space junk’ before a disaster happens, the head of Scottish rocket company Skyrora has said.

Volodymyr Levykin said the uncontrolled re-entry of the remains of the 18-tonne Chinese Long March 5b missile – which plunged into the sea just west of the Maldives last Sunday – should not be happening.

Volodymyr, Chief Executive Officer of Edinburgh-based Skyrora which aims to launch its first rocket next year, said the incident underlines the value of the firm’s work in developing a ‘space tug’ which can play a crucial role in clearing redundant satellites and other so-called space junk.

Volodymyr said: “The world had to watch and hold its breath to see where the debris from the Chinese Long March-5b vehicle would hit the Earth. But events like this shouldn’t be happening.

“There are around 34,000 objects above 10cm in size in Earth’s orbit that would be considered space junk – 3000 of which are redundant satellites. Moving at around 10km per second, these objects could seriously damage operational satellites or even the International Space Station.

“It’s vital that something is done to address the situation before disaster strikes – and we’re faced with the loss of crucial services, or worse still, loss of life.”

Volodymyr said the situation has heightened the demand for a vehicle that can make multiple stops and functions in space without the need for multiple launches.

He added: “Orbital Transfer Vehicles, such as Skyrora’s space tug, are on hand to help safely de-orbit space debris or transport it to a disposal orbit. With the capability of re-firing its engine multiple times and so manoeuvring once in orbit, a tug can complete several missions after deploying an initial payload.

“By integrating them as part of the rocket’s third stage, we can effectively deploy a vehicle as part of every launch, creating an orbital fleet of ‘space tugs’ ready to be called upon when required.

“Every launch, regardless of who is behind it or where it’s launching from, should now include some sort of space tug to make sure these uncontrolled re-entries are a thing of the past.

“It’s not only about helping the planet or clearing up the mess orbiting it but about protecting the crucial infrastructure that’s taken decades and trillions of dollars to build, which could effectively be wiped out in an instant.”

Skyrora has already successfully completed tests on a space tug model – at its engine development facility in Fife – which involved a full mission duration static fire test (450 second burn over three firings) of the upper (or third) stage of their orbital-class vehicle, Skyrora XL.

The development is a key part of Skyrora’s mission to place space sustainability as a crucial element in its planning and company vision. It has also developed a new way of launching satellites without damaging the environment as well as creating an eco-friendly fuel that ensures the UK has the most environmentally friendly space industry in the world.

The Edinburgh-based company recently secured €3M funding from the European Space Agency, which will be used to complete Skyrora’s XL programme to deliver consistent orbital launches from the UK.

Skyrora XL is a 23-metre, 56-tonne, three-stage rocket capable of carrying up to 315kg into orbit. The vehicle is on course to be test launched in 2022 from a UK spaceport and the project is set to generate 170 high-skilled jobs.

Skyrora boosted by European Space Agency funding

Scottish-based company aims to be the first to launch from Europe, delivering UK’s sovereign launch capability

Edinburgh-based rocket company, Skyrora, has received €3 million of co-funding from the European Space Agency (ESA), ensuring that the company can complete at pace the development of its rocket technology.

The funding not only represents a significant support of Skyrora’s ambitions as a pioneer in the sector but puts it on track to be the first UK company to launch satellites from Europe, delivering the UK’s sovereign space launch capability – a key Government ambition.

The funding, which is part of the ESA’s Boost! program, will be used by Skyrora to complete the crucial technology required to deliver consistent orbital launches from the UK with Skyrora’s XL launch vehicle.

Skyrora XL is a 23-meter 56-tonne three-stage rocket capable of carrying up to 315 kg into orbit. The vehicle is on course to be test-launched in 2022 from a UK spaceport.

This project plans to create over 170 high-skilled jobs in the UK.

Skyrora is ahead of any other UK launch company with its technology readiness, evidenced by four launches of its sounding rockets, static fire tests of its suborbital vehicle, and orbital third stage. Skyrora, which has its HQ in Edinburgh, has established its comprehensive rocket engine testing and manufacturing facilities in Scotland.

Volodymyr Levykin, founder and CEO of Skyrora, said: “This ESA contract will accelerate Skyrora’s progress on its journey to be the first to achieve the UK’s sovereign orbital launch.

“I am delighted that the UK Space Agency and the European Space Agency support our programme, which has, to date, delivered outstanding achievements – four successful launches, with two more ready for launch; the establishment of manufacturing and engine test facilities throughout Scotland; and the static fire test of our orbital third stage. ESA’s support, approved by the UK Space Agency through the Boost! programme will lead us to flight readiness of Skyrora XL in 2022.

“ESA’s funding will allow us to complete the set up of our larger Engine Test Complex, complete our 70kN engine programme and static fire test fire the first and second stages of Skyrora XL.

“Our pioneering work on championing environmental spaceflight, our proprietary eco-fuel and green innovations – together with the support of the European Space Agency and UK Space Agency – will help establish the UK not only as a world leader in space technology but the greenest space industry in the world too.”

Tim Peake, the first British astronaut to visit the International Space Station and an Advisor to Skyrora, said: “Independent access to space is vital for the UK to realise the full potential of its space industry and this exciting announcement for Skyrora brings us a big step closer to achieving that goal.

“Skyrora is bringing innovation and growth to the space sector, whilst setting new benchmarks for reducing carbon emissions. I’m delighted that ESA has awarded Skyrora this contract to support providing a new space transportation system for Europe.”

Ivan McKee, Trade and Innovation Minister said: “This is great news for Skyrora as it takes another major step in bringing green small satellite launch capability to Scotland.

“Our aim for Scotland is to secure a slice of the $400 billion global space market by 2030, remaining committed to our climate change targets and becoming a net zero society by 2045.

“The Scottish space sector is unique in that the environment is at the forefront of our considerations. Skyrora’s use of innovative technologies like this will position Scotland as the go-to destination for sustainable space services.

“Skyrora’s engine test complex in Fife will contribute to our national mission to create new jobs, good jobs and green jobs. Developing an end-to-end space economy in Scotland will support these goals and benefit the entire country through the creation of highly skilled, green employment.”

Environmental leadership

Inspired by the UK’s historic Black Arrow programme, Skyrora is combining the UK’s engineering heritage with new technologies to enable the UK to regain its leading role in space – as a champion of environmental sustainability.

The production of Ecosene, Skyrora’s proprietary eco-fuel, will remove over 3,000 tons of unrecyclable plastic waste by 2030. Skyrora has also conducted several successful trials of Space Tug which is its solution for clearing debris and removing defunct satellites from orbit, enabling the UK to become a world leader in addressing space junk.

Skyrora’s innovations are helping to establish the UK space sector as a green industry while also opening up the utility of space to tackle climate change. Space technology contributes to the attainment of 13 of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals.

Dr. Jack-James Marlow, Head of Engineering for Skyrora, said: “ESA’s funding award will enable Skyrora to significantly accelerate the pace at which we can complete the next stages on our technological roadmap and become the first UK company to launch satellites from Europe.

“We draw huge inspiration from the British engineers who led the way on the Black Arrow programme, and we are thrilled to be advancing their pioneering work at Skyrora for the benefit of the UK.”

Amanda Solloway MP, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Science, Research and Innovation, said: “The UK’s space industry is thriving and we have bold ambitions to be Europe’s leading destination for small satellite launches, developing world class commercial spaceflight capability up and down the country.

“Today’s funding for two of our most innovative space businesses is not only a step forward for UK spaceflight, but it will also help to create highly skilled jobs and local opportunities as we build back better from the pandemic.”

Ian Annett, Deputy CEO, UK Space Agency said: “This funding is great news for the UK space sector and will ensure companies such as Skyrora really are at the forefront of the European space industry.

“This support to our thriving space sector, alongside our flexible regulations and strong international agreements, means the UK is well placed to benefit from the new commercial opportunities UK launch will bring.”

Skyrora students get the chance to Reach for the Moon

Two students have landed places in what is reckoned to be the most prized university placement programme in Scotland – working with Edinburgh-based space rocket firm Skyrora.

Bethany Taylor and David King, who were selected from more than 100 applicants, will be based at Skyrora’s production facility at Loanhead – supporting the company’s aim to help Scotland to become a key player in the UK’s space race programme.

Bethany, a Mechanical Engineering student at University of Edinburgh, and David, an Aerospace Engineering student at the University of Sheffield have joined Skyrora’s technical team – supporting manufacturing, vehicle launches and more Skyrora XL stage testing.

Both David and Bethany will play a part in assisting Skyrora to achieve its goals for 2021.

Bethany said: “I am really looking forward to learning about how the business is run and having the chance to work on different projects, using the knowledge that I have learnt at university, on real life projects within Skyrora.”

David added: “I am thrilled to have the opportunity to work with the team at Skyrora, who are getting the UK back into space. It will be a great chance to push myself and learn from all the talented individuals who work here.”

The UK space industry now employs close to 42,000 people across the country and generates an income of nearly £15 billion every year. Scotland’s space industry is made up of 130+ companies, and it already employs more than 7,500 people.

Skyrora – through a range of important breakthroughs, including successful test launches and pioneering an eco liquid-fuel – has established itself as the UK’s leading private rocket company, supporting the burgeoning small satellite market. It aims to launch its first rocket – the Skyrora XL – from a UK site in 2023.

Skyrora’s Graduate Placement Programme is highly regarded by UK Universities as a vital pathway to help propel young engineering talent into the rapidly developing space sector.

Dr Jack James Marlow, Head of Engineering at Skyrora said: “2021 will be another important year for Skyrora as we move towards our first launch – an event that also will be of huge significance to the UK’s space industry ambitions.

“But to achieve our goal – and continue to support the focus on space as a growth sector in both Scotland and the UK – it’s vital we continue to engage with universities to forge and develop the new talent of the future.

“With 100+ applications, Skyrora’s placement programme has seen major interest from all over Europe.”

Skyrora offers technical positions for students at the start of each year, as well as summer internships.

Students interested in participating in Skyrora’s student programme or are looking for further information, please see the website for further details: