SaxaVord enters partnership with West of Scotland ‘space cluster’
SAXAVORD Spaceport in Unst and the West of Scotland Space Cluster have announced a strategic partnership aimed at advancing Scotland’s position as a global leader in space exploration and technology.
A spokesperson said the agreement should “foster collaboration, promote joint R&D [research and development] initiatives, contribute to the economic development of the region and support outreach educational programmes”.
The West of Scotland Space Cluster incorporates industry, universities and colleges, as well as economic development and support organisations.
The SaxaVord Spaceport, meanwhile, is preparing for first test-flights with German launch provider Rocket Factory Augsburg (RFA).
Spaceport CEO Frank Strang said: “As the UK’s first fully licensed vertical launch spaceport, SaxaVord positions the UK at the forefront of European spaceflight, enhancing the nation’s ability to deploy satellites into polar and sun-synchronous orbits.
“We are delighted to partner with the West of Scotland Space Cluster in realising the benefits of space exploration for the UK and for Scotland’s economy, as well as establishing Scotland within Europe’s northern hub supporting vertical launch and ground station activity.
“Working together and harnessing each other’s strengths, this collaboration aims to create jobs, develop understanding, accelerate Scotland’s space economy, and enhance the UK’s position in the global space sector.”
Darran Gardner, manager of the West of Scotland Space Cluster, said: “In a competitive market for launch, satellite, payload and data services, Scotland’s key players need to collaborate and coordinate activities to maximise the sector’s potential over the next decade.”
Meanwhile Northern Isles MP Alistair Carmichael has welcomed a commitment made by the secretary of state for science, innovation and technology to join the first launch from SaxaVord later this year.
During questions in the House of Commons on Wednesday, Carmichael raised the need for an updated space strategy following criticisms of the previous government by the National Audit Office last year.
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The MP said: “If that first space launch happens, and I believe it will, it will happen at SaxaVord in Unst.
“The Secretary of State will be very welcome to join us if it does. But in order for the UK space sector as a whole to realise the full opportunities that we have here, we need to get serious about the delivery of the government’s space strategy.
“The National Audit Office last year identified a number of challenges that that strategy faces. When will we hear the government’s response to it?”
Responding for the government, the secretary of state for science, innovation and technology Peter Kyle said:
“I agree with the Rt Hon Gentleman – when we came into office we did not inherit a clear strategy for space.
“That strategy is now being developed and you can see from the investments that we are making as a government into space, and the way that we are making sure that our relationship with the European Space Agency is delivering for the British sector – because we have more grants being delivered in the latest fund than any other country – it shows that we are delivering.
“I share his enthusiasm and certainty that a launch will happen this year and I very much look forward to being alongside him to witness it.”
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