Launch window for the UK's first space launch from Cornwall confirmed
Take-off is scheduled for Monday 9 January
Last updated 6th Jan 2023
Cornwall's first ever space launch is scheduled to take place next week.
Virgin Orbit says its ready to proceed with the historic first for the UK on Monday 9 January, after previously planning to launch in 2022.
All licenses, checks and clearances have now been given for the launch to go ahead - meaning Cosmic Girl is finally ready for lift-off as early as next week with additional back-up dates continuing into mid and late January.
"This is a significant landmark"
Ian Annett, Deputy CEO at the UK Space Agency, said: “We are entering a new era for space in the UK with the first ever satellite launch from UK soil and from Europe. This is a significant landmark for the nation, the UK Space Agency and for all those who have worked so hard over many years to make our ambitions to create a commercial space launch capability a reality.
“The development of new orbital launch capabilities is already generating growth, catalysing investment and creating jobs in Cornwall and other communities across the United Kingdom.
"This will lead to new careers, improved productivity and inspire the next generation of space professionals, and this is just the beginning. I look forward to seeing more launches from other UK spaceports over the next year, putting us firmly on the map as Europe’s leading destination for commercial small satellite launch".
"A phenomenal moment"
Cosmic Girl, which is the aircraft, will hold a LauncherOne rocket on launch before it's released into orbit, and is expected to leave Cornwall Airport Newquay after 10.16PM.
The Start Me Up Mission will carry satellites from seven customers to space, including commercial and government payloads from several nations and a collaborative US-UK mission - and is a collaborative effort between the United Kingdom Space Agency (UKSA), Cornwall Council, the Royal Air Force, and Virgin Orbit.
Dan Hart, Virgin Orbit CEO, said: "After ensuring that every technical aspect is sound and every regulation and code has been satisfied, it is gratifying to see this historic endeavor on the verge of coming to fruition.
"This launch represents the opening of a new era in the British space industry and new partnerships across industry, government, and allies.
Melissa Thorpe, Head of Spaceport Cornwall, said: "This is a phenomenal moment with incredible international collaboration. Virgin Orbit, the UK Space Agency and all of our partners are breaking new ground to transform access to space across the world from right here in Cornwall. "My team at Spaceport Cornwall have worked so hard to get this far and we wish everyone the best of luck as the launch window opens, we are ready".
Tim Johnson, Director for Space Regulation at the UK Civil Aviation Authority said: “Effective licensing forms an integral part of UK space activity, and with public safety at the heart of our decision making, we’ve worked with Virgin Orbit and Spaceport Cornwall to assess their applications and issue licences within our expected timeframe, putting the UK framework on a competitive footing with international space regulators.
"With all licences in place, Virgin Orbit and Spaceport Cornwall are now in a position to deliver a historic first orbital launch from UK shores".
"We’re proud to be playing our part in facilitating the UK’s space ambitions and enable this country to become a leading launch nation.”