A deal has been signed which will see the first Welsh satellite launched from Spaceport Cornwall.
The agreement between Virgin Orbit and Space Forge is part of a broader joint UK-US mission to open the country’s first spaceport this summer in Newquay.
“We’re thrilled to be making UK history with our first launch,” said Space Forge CEO Joshua Western. “This is the start of a great collaboration and we are so excited to see where it goes.”
Virgin Orbit CEO, Dan Hart, added: “We at Virgin Orbit are delighted to have been chosen to move Space Forge forward in their space journey as we look forward to our inaugural Cornwall launch.
“Space Forge is joining the growing community of space innovators advancing space technologies for the betterment of our world. Their commitment to sustainability builds a foundation for future growth in the industry that we at Virgin Orbit are proud to be part of.”
Melissa Thorpe, head of Spaceport Cornwall, said: “Launch from Cornwall is the chance to set the bar for the global space industry. Leading with companies like Space Forge, who are innovating in the responsible use of space, is key to this next iteration of space exploration.
“It’s amazing to see our partners Virgin Orbit select customers who share our ambitions in this area and we can’t wait to show the world how this can be done.”
Dr Paul Bate, CEO of the UK Space Agency, commented: “The UK is set to become the first nation in Europe to offer small satellite launch, as we become one of the most attractive space economies in the world.”
