Virgin Orbit’s Next Launch Will Take Place In Cornwall

7th Jul 2022
Virgin Orbit’s Next  Launch Will Take Place In Cornwall

The fifth Virgin Orbit mission is set to launch from Spaceport Cornwall later in 2022. The launch is set to go ahead after the successful completion of the Straight Up mission on 2nd July.

The Straight Up mission saw a successful satellite launch occur from Mojave, California.

Now that this mission is complete, all eyes turn to Cornwall later in the year. The UK launch is being supported by Cornwall Council and the UK Space Agency. Spaceport Cornwall, the launch site, will generate 150 jobs for the local area.

George Freeman, the UK’s Science Minister, stated the following:

“Congratulations to Virgin Orbit on another successful US mission, which demonstrates the ability of its innovative launch platform to put satellites into orbit day or night. With the countdown on to the first satellite launch from UK soil, it’s incredible to see Cosmic Girl and LauncherOne in action before they head to Spaceport Cornwall.

We are in a strong position to capitalise on the growing global demand for small satellite launch and to do so in a way that will keep space and our planet sustainable for future generations.”

Satellites confirmed for the Cornwall launch

A number of international and national satellite customers announced their ride on the Cornwall launch later this year. Foreign customers include the Sultanate of Oman and US National Reconnaissance Office. UK clients include the MOD, Satellite Applications Catapult and Horizon Technologies, and Space Forge. 

Matthew Archer, the UK Space Agency’s Director of Commercial Spaceflight, visited Virgin Orbit for the launch in the US. He stated the following:

“The UK is home to some of the world’s leading satellite manufacturers, which currently ship their products overseas for launch. We are supporting them by fostering a new domestic launch market, with spaceports and launch operators providing services across the UK and catalysing investment from all over the world.”

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