SaxaVord SpacePort, a leading UK vertical launch company, has been granted the Range Control Licence by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). This licence, the first of its kind in the UK, allows SaxaVord to have increased control over its launch operations and ensures the safety of people and vehicles in the designated downrange zone.
With the Range Control Licence, SaxaVord now has the authority to issue warning notices to keep people out of hazardous areas, perform surveillance of these areas, and monitor the progress of rockets during flight. The size of the downrange zone will vary depending on the specific vehicle being launched. This license is a significant step forward for SaxaVord as it prepares for its upcoming launch operations.
It’s important to note that the Range Control Licence does not grant permission to launch rockets. SaxaVord still needs to obtain their own certificates for each rocket before they can be launched. However, this licence plays a crucial role in ensuring public safety during launches and demonstrates SaxaVord’s commitment to operating in a safe and regulated manner.
Colin Macleod, Head of UK Space Regulation at the UK Civil Aviation Authority, emphasized the importance of SaxaVord’s range licence in protecting public safety during launches. He also highlighted how their work is contributing to the growth and development of the UK space sector, promoting safety, sustainability, and security in space activities.
Frank Strang, CEO of SaxaVord Spaceport, expressed his delight at receiving the range licence. He described it as a historic milestone for both SaxaVord and the entire UK space sector. Being Western Europe’s only fully licensed vertical launch spaceport, SaxaVord is now preparing to make more space history with orbital launch operations expected to begin in the third quarter of this year.
The granting of this licence marks the 361st issued by the CAA, highlighting the rapid growth of the UK space sector. It is estimated that the space industry currently employs around 50,000 people across the country. This licensing milestone not only positions SaxaVord as a key player in the UK space industry but also contributes to the overall growth and success of the sector.
With the Range Control Licence in hand, SaxaVord SpacePort is now one step closer to achieving its mission of becoming a leading player in the space industry. The licence underscores SaxaVord’s commitment to safety and regulatory compliance, ensuring that its launch operations are carried out in a safe and proper manner under the watchful eye of the regulator. As anticipation builds for the first launch in Q3 of this year, SaxaVord’s achievements serve as a testament to the UK’s expanding space sector and its dedication to advancing space exploration and technology.
