Monday, February 10, 2025

Rocket Engine Explodes During Test at UK’s Shetland Spaceport

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A rocket engine has exploded during a test at the UK’s new SaxaVord Spaceport, located on the remote island of Unst in Shetland. The test, conducted by the German aerospace company Rocket Factory Augsburg (RFA), was part of a series of trials intended to pave the way for the first vertical rocket launch from UK soil.

The explosion occurred during a scheduled nine-engine test, which is one of several crucial steps in the lead-up to a full orbital launch. RFA, who aims to make history by launching the UK’s first vertical rocket into orbit, confirmed that no one was injured in the incident. They also reported that the launch pad remained intact and was secured following the explosion.

Eyewitnesses reported seeing large flames and plumes of smoke shooting horizontally from the base of the rocket before the entire structure became engulfed in fire. Despite the dramatic scenes, RFA and SaxaVord Spaceport officials emphasized that all safety protocols were strictly adhered to. The site had been evacuated before the test began, ensuring no staff were at risk.

This latest incident comes just three months after the first rocket test at SaxaVord Spaceport, which was hailed as a success. During that initial test, RFA’s engines were fired for eight seconds before being safely shut down.

In a statement, SaxaVord Spaceport officials noted that test campaigns are designed to identify and address potential issues before progressing to the next phase. They expressed confidence in the ongoing partnership with RFA, emphasizing their commitment to learning from this test to support the company as it moves toward the next stage of preparations.

SaxaVord Spaceport, a former RAF radar station co-owned by Frank and Debbie Strang, has received significant attention as the first fully licensed spaceport in Western Europe capable of vertical orbital launches. In December 2023, it received approval from the UK Civil Aviation Authority to begin orbital launches, with plans to conduct up to 30 launches per year. These launches will carry satellites and other payloads into space, contributing to the rapidly growing UK space industry, which is valued at £17.5 billion and supports nearly 48,800 jobs across 2,200 firms.

While the explosion marks a setback, it is not expected to derail the long-term plans for SaxaVord Spaceport. Other companies, including German firm HyImpulse and Edinburgh-based Skyrora, are also planning to use the spaceport for future launches. The UK government, through its Pathfinder program, has also lined up Lockheed Martin/ABL Space Systems for upcoming orbital launches from the site.

SaxaVord is one of several spaceports under development in Scotland, with others in Sutherland, North Uist, and Machrihanish also aiming to join the burgeoning space race.

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