Two pioneering Scottish space companies, Orbex and HyImpulse, have secured a combined £6.7 million in funding to develop green rocket fuel. As the United Kingdom intensifies efforts to launch rockets from its own soil, these investments represent a crucial step forward in sustainable space travel.
Orbex, the company behind the construction of low-carbon orbital launch services at Sutherland Spaceport on the A’ Mhòine peninsula, has received a substantial £3.3 million injection. The funding, awarded through the UK Space Agency’s contributions to a European Space Agency program, will be utilized to support carbon-neutral operations and pave the way for the development of green rocket fuel.
The capital will specifically be used to install cutting-edge equipment capable of manufacturing fuel derived from renewable feedstocks. The ambitious project aims to make Sutherland Spaceport the first carbon-neutral spaceport globally, with construction commencing in April 2023. Once fully operational, Orbex plans to launch up to 12 orbital rockets annually.
HyImpulse’s Hybrid Revolution
Meanwhile, HyImpulse has secured nearly £3.4 million to test its hybrid propulsion system ahead of its launch from SaxaVord Spaceport in Shetland. The funding, also part of the UK Space Agency’s commitment to the European Space Agency program, will facilitate carbon-neutral operations and the development of green rocket fuel synthesized from paraffin.
HyImpulse’s UK arm is taking further steps towards sustainability with the establishment of a joint venture called Carbon Launch Systems. This initiative aims to manufacture carbon fiber Liquid Oxygen Tanks, contributing to the overall reduction of the carbon footprint in space exploration.
UK’s Ambition Takes Flight
These developments come at a pivotal time for the United Kingdom, which is gearing up for renewed attempts to launch satellites into orbit in 2024 and beyond. The aspiration is to position the UK as Europe’s leading destination for small satellite launches, leveraging its expertise in satellite design.
Andrew Griffith MP, Minister for Space at the Department for Science, Innovation, and Technology, expressed the government’s commitment to advancing space technology while emphasizing sustainability. “Pioneering innovations like building the world’s most eco-friendly space rocket signal our commitment to being at the forefront of the next generation of space technology, while raising our standing as a leader in space sustainability.”
Challenges and Triumphs in the Space Race
The recent history of UK-based space endeavors has not been without its challenges. In early 2023, Virgin Orbit, led by Richard Branson, attempted the first orbital launch from UK soil. Unfortunately, the Spaceport Cornwall launch fell short of the required orbit, and Virgin Orbit later faced financial difficulties, underscoring the high-risk, high-reward nature of private space enterprises.
Despite the setbacks, Matt Archer, Director of Launch at the UK Space Agency, remains optimistic. “These contracts will help Orbex to develop the launch site at Sutherland Spaceport and HyImpulse to prepare for their first launch from SaxaVord Spaceport, enhancing our launch capability, creating high-skilled jobs, and supporting the Government’s vision for the UK to be Europe’s most attractive launch destination by 2030.”
With the infusion of funding and a commitment to sustainable practices, Orbex and HyImpulse are not only propelling satellites into orbit but also driving the UK towards a greener and more sustainable future in the space race. The success of these ventures could position the UK as a trailblazer in eco-friendly space exploration, setting a precedent for the global space industry to follow.
