SaxaVord Spaceport has announced partnerships with Lerwick Engineering and Fabrication (LEF) and T12 Consultancy to deliver its rocket launch rail. The launch rail – as its name suggests – is the critical component for directing launch vehicles and allow for suborbital launches. The installation work is being supported by £378,000 of funding from the UK Space Agency. Specifically, the spaceport has retained a manufacturing contract with Lerwick Engineering and Fabrication. T12, specialists in project engineering, will design and construct the launch rail for SaxaVord on the Lamba Ness peninsula site in Unst, Shetland. The project is dubbed SkyReach is due to “begin launch activities early next year”, beginning with suborbital launches, and then vertical orbital launches planned for later in 2023.
Suborbital
The spaceport is aiming to become a “gateway for the European space industry” and the rocket launch rail will allow SaxaVord to widen its service offerings. By making suborbital launches possible, it says, it aims to also support research facilities and the education sector.
For example, suborbital launches would allow third-parties to to test, demonstrate and qualify key components for satellites and orbital launches, as well as for scientific research and experiments that require microgravity. Applications include material testing, atmospheric physics and measurements, and hypersonic research.
“Construction of SaxaVord’s launch site is progressing at pace and this contract marks a significant next step in the design of our industry-leading launch facilities,” said the CEO of SaxaVord Spaceport, Frank Strang.
“By working with local Shetland-based companies we’re continuing to support local businesses and industries at every stage in the Spaceport’s progression.”
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