UK’s first rocket launch gets boost with granting of crucial licence. See details

The first-ever rocket launch from the UK’s soil will happen soon as it passed a regulatory test just before Christmas. Virgin Orbit’s “Start Me Up” mission got a boost when UK’s Civil Aviation Authority granted permission to launch operator Spaceport Cornwall, which is being considered a major milestone, media reports said.

The approval from the space regulator of the UK will allow Virgin Orbit to launch its LauncherOne rocket into space. Virgin Orbit will use “Cosmic Girl,” a modified Boeing 747, to launch the rocket from Newquay Airport, Cornwall. Cosmic Girl will carry LauncherOne at the launch before dispatching it thousands of miles into space.

A media report suggested that the LauncherOne rocket will be transporting nine small satellites into orbit. The report also confirmed that Cosmic Girl would take off horizontally, unlike NASA’s straight-up rocket launches. While the date of launch is not yet confirmed, it is expected to take place a few days after Christmas.




The first-ever rocket launch from British soil was delayed due to technical difficulties, even though the modified Boeing 747 had arrived at Spaceport Cornwall in October. The LauncherOne rocket was also docked at Spaceport Cornwall a week after Cosmic Girl’s arrival. However, the earlier issues with licensing seem to have been sorted out after months of delay.

After getting the regulatory clearance, Virgin Orbit’s CEO Dan Har said it represented the completion of an “enormous effort.” Dan said the approval had taken them a step closer to launching the first satellite from the UK. Spaceport Cornwall chief Melissa Thorpe called it a “historic launch” and said the entire team was excited for the upcoming launch event, which space sector experts believe will initiate the UK's burgeoning space programme.

FAQs:

1. Who is the CEO of Virgin Orbit?
   Dan Har.
2. Where will the launch take place?
   Spaceport Cornwall site at the Newquay Airport in Cornwall.