Spaceports at sites like Cornwall expected to be in operation from next summer
New regulations are being laid out in Parliament later (Monday 24th May), that will mean satellites and rockets can launch from the UK for the first time
Last updated 24th May 2021
Planned spaceports in places like Cornwall, Wales and Scotland are expected to be in operation from next summer.
New regulations are being laid out in Parliament later (Monday 24th May).
Developed with the UK Space Agency and the Civil Aviation Authority, the regulations will mean satellites and rockets can launch from UK soil for the first time.
Ministers say future satellite launches will improve our access to data and communications and revolutionise services such as satellite navigation and earth observation, enhancing the way we live, work, travel and interact with our planet.
They added that space exploration has a long history of inspiring us all to consider our impact on the Earth and access to space is essential as we tackle global environmental issues, such as climate change.
"This is a pivotal moment for our spaceflight ambitions. Since the start of the spaceflight programme in 2017 we have been clear that we want to be the first country to launch into orbit from Europe.
"The laying of these regulations puts us firmly on track to see the first UK launches take place from 2022, unlocking a new era in commercial spaceflight for all four corners of our nation".
Transport Secretary, Grant Shapps
The legislation, laid just two weeks before the G7 summit in Cornwall, will come into force this summer, and will help propel the development of commercial spaceflight technologies, from traditional rockets to high-altitude balloons and spaceplanes.
In time, the UK will also start to see new and emerging space activity, including sub-orbital space tourism and eventually new transport systems such as hypersonic flight, which will dramatically reduce aviation travel times.
“I am pleased to see this key legislation laid before Parliament today, which will allow commercial spaceflights to launch from sites such as Spaceport Cornwall in the future.”
“This is another giant leap towards realising the exciting potential of the space industry for Cornwall, something which I have worked hard to make a reality since I was first elected in 2015.”
“The commercial satellite launches that we will see from Spaceport Cornwall will improve our access to data and communications, and revolutionise services such as satellite navigation and earth observation - enhancing the way we live, work, travel and interact with our planet, particularly in observing the global issues around climate change.”
“I will continue to do all I can to work with the team at Spaceport Cornwall, along with colleagues in Government to get this project ready for launch.”
Steve Double, MP for St Austell and Newquay
Ministers say UK spaceport launches will help create new jobs and offer economic benefits to communities across the country, as well as inspiring the next generation of space scientists.
They added that not only will this support our thriving space sector, it will also attract companies from around the globe to come to, and benefit from, these commercial opportunities.
"Continuing to grow our launch capability will help bring jobs and economic benefits across the UK.
"The Space Industry Regulations we've tabled today will create a supportive, attractive and safe environment for commercial spaceflight.
"Today marks another crucial milestone that will enable the first launches from British soil in 2022 and make UK commercial spaceflight a reality".
Science Minister, Amanda Solloway