SaxaVord Spaceport, located on Unst in the Shetland Islands, has advanced its mission to host vertical space launches in the UK by obtaining a crucial range control licence from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). This licence, granted on April 25, 2024, empowers the spaceport to establish and oversee a safety zone required for rocket launches, ensuring the security of both maritime and aviation traffic in the vicinity.

The spaceport had previously received its spaceport licence in December, confirming its adherence to requisite safety and environmental standards. With the range licence now secured, the next procedural step involves obtaining launch operator licences for interested companies. German company Rocket Factory Augsburg is poised to be among the first to utilize the facility, planning its inaugural satellite launch from Unst later in the year.

Colin Macleod, representing the CAA, emphasized that the range licence is integral to public safety and supports the growth and security of the UK’s burgeoning space industry. The UK Transport Secretary, Mark Harper, also acknowledged the significance of this development, linking safe and successful launches from SaxaVord Spaceport to potential job creation and economic growth within the region.

Frank Strang, CEO of SaxaVord Spaceport, shared his enthusiasm for the milestones achieved, suggesting that these developments position Unst as a pivotal location for the UK’s space ambitions. The spaceport aims to eventually facilitate up to one launch per month as it progresses towards its first commercial orbital launch, marking a significant step in expanding the UK’s capabilities in the global space sector.