Orbex Aims For 2025 Launch From UK's First Spaceport

UK-based space launch company, Orbex, has confirmed its target for a maiden launch in 2025 from the Sutherland Spaceport in Scotland. The company has been making significant strides in developing its Prime rocket and the launch site infrastructure, bringing the UK one step closer to becoming a space-faring nation.

Phil Chambers, chief executive of the United Kingdom-based company, said “We expect the spaceport to be ready in early spring of next year,” he said. Vehicle subsystems are going through critical design reviews, with some flight hardware under construction. We are shooting for a 2025 launch. ”Once the company starts launching the Prime rocket, Chambers added that launches would be limited by the company’s ability to produce rockets. “We can probably handmake about three or four a year,” he said. “We need to build a factory to scale up.” 

Matthew Archer, director of launch at the U.K. Space Agency, said  he company’s first launch is “probably about a year or so away.”

Orbex’s Prime rocket is designed to be environmentally friendly, using bio-methane as its primary propellant. This focus on sustainability aligns with the UK’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint. The rocket is also optimized for small satellite payloads, offering a competitive option for the growing smallsat market.

The Sutherland Spaceport, located on the northern coast of Scotland, is being developed as a key component of the UK’s space industry strategy. Once operational, it will provide a launch site for small satellite constellations, Earth observation missions, and other space-based applications.

Phil Chambers, CEO of Orbex, expressed optimism about the company's progress, stating, "We are excited to be at the forefront of the UK's space industry. Our goal of a 2025 launch is ambitious, but we are confident in our team and the technology we have developed."

The successful launch of Orbex's Prime rocket would mark a significant milestone for the UK space sector, creating jobs and attracting investment to the region. It would also position the UK as a key player in the global space economy.