Sierra Space Signs Memorandum of Understanding with Spaceport Cornwall

Sierra Space, a subsidiary of Sierra Nevada Corporation, recently announced signing an agreement with Cornwall spaceport. Both Sierra Nevada Corporation and Spaceport Cornwall aim to encourage more participation from the private sector in the space industry. The first-ever launch is scheduled from the Cornwall spaceport in 2022. Head of Spaceport Cornwall, Melissa Thorpe, has shared her excitement about adding one more launch partner to the current consortium even before the facility is commissioned.

Collaboration between Cornwall Spaceport & a US Company

Cornwall Spaceport is a horizontal launch pad located near South West England. An MOU (Memorandum of Understanding) was recently signed between the Cornwall Spaceport and Sierra Space representatives, a global subsidiary of Sierra Nevada Corporation (SNC).

The MOU is a great milestone for the UK Space Industry. It signifies that Spaceport Cornwall has a sustainable future. Sierra Corporation might use Cornwall Spaceport as a return location for its Dream Chaser spacecraft if things go right. The company has already started looking into the Cornwall Spaceport as part of the Concept of Operations (CONOPS), and so far, things look positive. The CONOPS is currently receiving funds from the UK Space Agency.

What is the Dream Chaser?

Dream Chaser is an American-made spacecraft developed by Sierra Nevada Corporation Space Systems (SNC). As Sierra Corporation’s most advanced spacecraft, Dream Chaser is involved in several NASA missions. Unlike most other space launch vehicles, Dream Chaser uses an air-launch technology, which makes it a perfect partner for Spaceport Cornwall with its long runway and developed infrastructure.

Besides Dream Chaser, the spaceport has other clients interested in the facility’s unique launch capabilities. Virgin Orbit, with its tested air-launch technology, already voiced its intention to use Spaceport Cornwall as soon as the facility is operational.