British Spaceflight to Become a Reality in 2022
With spaceports planned for Cornwall, Wales and Scotland, British spaceflight is set to become a reality in 2022, according to the UK government.
"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."
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps.
Spaceports are expected to be in operation by next summer under new regulations recently introduced in Parliament. Developed with the UK Space Agency and the Civil Aviation Authority, the new regulations will mean satellites and rockets can launch from UK soil for the first time. Future satellite launches will improve access to data and communications, and revolutionize services such as satellite navigation and earth observation.
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. "This is a pivotal moment for our spaceflight ambitions. Since the start of the spaceflight program in 2017, we have been clear that we want to be the first country to launch into orbit from Europe," said Transport Secretary Grant Shapps. "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, introduced just 2 weeks before the G7 summit in Cornwall, will come into force this summer and will help propel the development of commercial British spaceflight technologies, from traditional rockets to high-altitude balloons and spaceplanes. In time, the UK 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.
"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," said Science Minister Amanda Solloway. "Today marks another crucial milestone that will enable the first launches from British soil in 2022 and make UK commercial spaceflight a reality."
(Source: UK Space Agency news release. Image provided)