Rocket Factory Augsburg (RFA) is gearing up to make history by becoming the first space agency to launch a vertical rocket from UK soil into orbit. A test run of nine engines was planned as part of the launch process, but one of them exploded before counting.
The incident on the SaxaVord spacecraft on the island of Unst in Shetland (off the coast of Scotland) resulted in no injuries and no damage to the launch pad, the company said in a statement. The The explosion caused the building to catch fire, flames and smoke billowing from the lower deck of the rocket and the building engulfed in flames.
The The company conducted another successful test three months ago, firing the engines for eight seconds before shutting down.. He explains that the explosion was caused by an anomaly in the first stage of the rocket, which led to its loss.
The The RFA said it is working with SaxaVord Spaceport and relevant authorities to gather data and information to resolve what happened.. The company also highlights that its development philosophy emphasizes real testing, being aware of the high risks associated with this approach. He also indicated that he would like to return to regulatory action as soon as possible.
The BBC SaxaVord Spaceport received approval from the Civil Aviation Authority in December 2023 to conduct orbital launches this year. First licensed in Western Europe to launch vertically into orbit.
Up to 30 launches a year are expected, from satellites or payloads to spaceby companies such as Lockheed Martin/ABL Space Systems, the German HyImpulse and Skyrora.
The United Kingdom has another licensed space station, Cornwall Spaceport, but it only uses planes to launch rockets horizontally. This is where Virgin Orbit attempted to launch its LauncherOne rocket last year, but an anomaly prevented it from reaching its planned orbit.
