Rockets… galore

More from Scotland and the rise of its small space industry.

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.

And:

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.”

Interesting to see how this may be moving forward.