widget/exchange-29
widget/exchange-30widget/exchange-33
widget/exchange-31

Space / Aberdeen firm signs deal with spaceport for meteorological system

SaxaVord spaceport with a completed launch stool visible. Photo: SaxaVord Spaceport

ANOTHER contract has been signed for the SaxaVord Spaceport – this time for a weather monitoring system.

Aberdeen-based Nevis Technology will provide a meteorological system featuring a range of equipment in one system which will allow the spaceport team to assess all aspects of the weather and surrounding atmosphere in the lead up to a rocket launch.

The hope is that this will increase the safety of launches.

By having a full picture of air pressure, temperature, wind speed, cloud coverage, lightning and storm detection, and overall visibility, it will also help them understand and map the trajectory of the rocket when it takes off.

Nevis Technology Operations director Kathleen Dawes said: “SaxaVord Spaceport was looking for a ‘full-service offering’, that could integrate all weather monitoring systems into one and we were able to come up with exactly what they wanted.

“Our technology allows each weather element to be detected and monitored independently, with all data reporting into one software system, meaning that it is easier to view and analyse the information.

offset-carousel/post-mobile/0

“All the data gathered in Shetland can be accessed anywhere in the world using Nevis’ software. It also makes service and maintenance easier.”

Following an initial test phase in Aberdeen, the kit will be moved to the Lamba Ness site in Unst, with installation scheduled to take place in May or June.

The first rocket launch there is planned for later in the year.

To date, a total of £19 million has been invested in SaxaVord Spaceport, with a projected investment of £43 million being spent over the next 18 months developing the Lamba Ness complex, rising to £100 million in the next five years.

Become a member of Shetland News

Shetland News is asking its many readers to consider paying for membership to get additional features and services: -

  • Remove non-local ads;
  • Bookmark posts to read later;
  • Exclusive curated weekly newsletter;
  • Hide membership messages;
  • Comments open for discussion.

If you appreciate what we do and feel strongly about impartial local journalism, then please become a member of Shetland News by either making a single payment, or setting up a monthly, quarterly or yearly subscription.

 
widget/pd_widget-6widget/pd_widget-7widget/exchange-53widget/exchange-54widget/pd_widget-8widget/exchange-55widget/pd_widget-9widget/exchange-56

Newsletters

Subscribe to a selection of different newsletters from Shetland News, varying from breaking news delivered on the minute, to a weekly round-up of the opinion posts. All delivered straight to your inbox.

Daily Briefing Newsletter Weekly Highlights Newsletter Opinion Newsletter Life in Shetland Newsletter

JavaScript Required

We're sorry, but Shetland News isn't fully functional without JavaScript enabled.
Head over to the help page for instructions on how to enable JavaScript on your browser.

Your Privacy

We use cookies on our site to improve your experience.
By using our service, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Cookie Policy.

Browser is out-of-date

Shetland News isn't fully functional with this version of .
Head over to the help page for instructions on updating your browser for more security, improved speed and the best overall experience on this site.

Interested in Notifications?

Get notifications from Shetland News for important and breaking news.
You can unsubscribe at any time.

Have you considered becoming a member of Shetland News?

If you appreciate what we do and feel strongly about impartial local journalism, then please consider paying for membership and get the following features and services: -

  • Remove non-local ads;
  • Bookmark posts to read later;
  • Exclusive curated weekly newsletter;
  • Hide membership messages;
  • Comments open for discussion.