HyImpulse, a leading space company, has recently received a launch license from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) in the UK. This license allows them to launch their sounding rocket, known as SR75, which is scheduled to take off in late 2024. The news of the approval comes as HyImpulse sends their SR75 rocket by sea from Germany to Australia for its inaugural flight.
The COO of HyImpulse, Konstantin Tomilin, expressed his excitement about the progress they have made. He stated that the hybrid system used in the rocket provides a more cost-effective and efficient way to launch payloads into space. This technology has the potential to be a game changer in the industry and is expected to have a significant impact on getting small satellites into orbit.
HyImpulse has been steadily making progress towards their launch. They recently received a funding of nearly £3.5 million from the UK Space Agency for their SaxaVord launch operations. Now, with the CAA’s approval, their launch plans are finally coming to fruition. The company’s sounding rocket is one of the largest rockets that will be launched from the Shetland spaceport.
While there has been no official announcement from HyImpulse, reports are flooding in about this achievement. The SR75 rocket is set to make history as one of the first rockets to launch from SaxaVord Spaceport, which received its own launch license in December last year. Although SaxaVord does not require a launch license for this flight, as it meets the specific requirements of the launch, the site is fully prepared from a bureaucratic standpoint.
The first launch spot at SaxaVord has already been reserved for Rocket Factory Augsburg (RFA), who have been granted £10 million towards their first launch. This launch is planned for the upcoming summer, which means they will beat HyImpulse to the Scottish launch pad by a narrow margin.
Meanwhile, HyImpulse’s SR75 rocket has embarked on its journey to the launch site in Australia. This is a major milestone for the company, and they are eagerly awaiting its safe arrival. The countdown to their launch campaign has officially begun. The rocket underwent assembly and testing at various sites across Europe, including SaxaVord. Final preparations were completed in Germany before it was transported to Koonibba, South Australia. Originally, the launch was planned to take place from the Shetland site, but construction delays prompted the change of location.
The rocket set sail for Australia in late February, traveling through the Atlantic Ocean via South Africa. It is expected to arrive at its destination soon, with the first launch scheduled for mid-April. HyImpulse assures that there are no foreseen operational challenges after the rigorous testing regime it underwent at SaxaVord Spaceport.
The SR75 rocket is capable of carrying 250 kg of payload in a 200 km ballistic trajectory. It is a single-stage launch vehicle that can be used for microgravity experiments and atmospheric research. One notable feature is its use of paraffin fuel, which is non-explosive and significantly reduces launch risks. With their first launch just around the corner, HyImpulse is poised to become one of the most active space companies this year.
Overall, HyImpulse’s progress in receiving a launch license for their sounding rocket and their preparations for the upcoming launch in Australia demonstrate their commitment to advancing the field of space exploration. Their innovative hybrid system and use of non-explosive fuel are expected to revolutionize satellite launches and pave the way for more cost-effective and efficient space missions. As their journey continues, all eyes will be on HyImpulse and the impact they will have on the industry as a whole.
