The UK government has made headlines with its significant £20 million investment aimed at bolstering the nation's position as a leader in the European space sector. This pivotal investment goes to Orbex, a UK-based launch services company, and marks the first time the government has actively supported the UK’s ability to launch satellites effectively from its own shores.
Announced recently at the European Space Conference held in Brussels, the funding is seen as part of the UK government’s broader ambition to develop indigenous capabilities for launching satellites. Technology Secretary Peter Kyle emphasized, "Britain’s impressive toolkit of scientific talent, world class facilities, and unique geography means we stand ready to lead the charge and to work together with our international partners as a key part of the new space revolution in Europe." The investment contributes not just to potential profits but also to job creation and community growth, which are key components of the government’s Plan for Change.
Orbex is committed to constructing its Prime rocket—believed to be the first UK-manufactured and launched orbital rocket—which is set to take flight from the recently licensed SaxaVord Spaceport located on the Shetland Isles. The company expects to launch the inaugural Prime rocket by the end of 2025, aiming to position the UK as a leading hub for small satellite launches.
This initiative is not only about technological advancement but is also rooted deeply in economic aspirations. The growing demand for satellite services, projected to reach $50 billion by 2033 across Europe, presents the UK with the opportunity to leverage its geographic and technological resources. Just capturing 2% of this market could yield around $1 billion for the UK economy, heralding significant financial returns.
Phillip Chambers, CEO of Orbex, expressed optimism about the investment, stating, "This first of its kind investment by the UK government demonstrates its confidence in the UK’s space rocket manufacturing and launch sector and is an exciting start to the opening of our Series D fundraising." Chambers suggests this landmark funding will not only facilitate the launch of the Prime rocket but also support the development of larger rockets, enhancing their competitive edge within the European space sector.
Prime, the rocket currently under development, is being lauded for its sustainability features. Powered by renewable bio-propane fuel, the rocket stands out as being environmentally friendly, significantly reducing carbon emissions compared to its counterparts. The Orbex team is dedicated to pushing forward the concept of ‘ultra-green’ space travel and aims to introduce technologies ensuring the rocket's reusability, which involves recovering components for future usage after their missions.
Scotland’s strategic geographical position will allow easy access to unique polar orbits, enhancing Orbex's operational capabilities. The dual launch site offered by SaxaVord—which is one of only two licensed vertical launch facilities in Europe—marks the UK’s entrance onto the global stage, ready to cater to the rising demands for satellite launches.
Dr. Paul Bate, the CEO of the UK Space Agency, reiterated the significance of investment like this, stating, "Space is a fast-growing global industry and there is a real opportunity for the UK to play a greater role now than ever before. This new government investment is not just about launching a rocket, but building a more prosperous future for all, powered by space technology." The potential for job creation is substantial, with reports predicting over 140 highly skilled roles to emerge from the Prime project alone.
The local communities, particularly around Forres where Orbex is headquartered, stand to benefit considerably. Each job created sparks economic stability and brings skilled labor, particularly important for the Highlands and Islands regions. Yet, not everyone views the investment with optimism. Following Orbex’s decision to mothball the Sutherland Spaceport project—recently receiving £14.24 million of public funding—some local officials have expressed concern. Scottish Green MSP Ariane Burgess has called for clarity on how the latest investment will directly benefit the Highlands, urging Orbex to reconsider the mothballed site.
Despite the pushback, the government’s investment indicates the UK’s commitment to not only becoming self-sufficient in satellite launches but also to leading the way forward for sustainable space endeavors. The Prime rocket’s development is set to create new pathways for British engineers, scientists, and young talents aiming to secure careers within the burgeoning space sector.
Orbex’s plans and the government support signify the beginning of what many believe could be a transformative era for the UK space industry. The convergence of technological innovation, sustainable practices, and economic viability reflects the potential for growing the UK’s space capabilities. This marks the dawning of greater achievements and aspirations as Orbex aims to realize its vision of effective and environmentally friendly satellite launches from British soil.
With the first Prime rocket launch slated for late 2025, anticipation is building within the community and industry alike. The £20 million investment is the harbinger of increased collaboration between the UK government and private enterprises, signifying stronger international partnerships necessary to reinvigorate the space race.