Space Tourism Flights from UK? Richard Branson Eyes Cornwall Spaceport

Sir Richard Branson has expressed his desire to launch space tourism flights from the UK, suggesting Spaceport Cornwall as a potential hub for Virgin Galactic. Speaking at the Space-Comm Expo in London, Branson expressed his enthusiasm for launching from the UK.

“I would dearly love to have one in the UK. Maybe at some stage we might talk to the UK government about that,” he told attendees.

Spaceport Cornwall has responded positively to the idea, confirming they are open to discussions with Branson’s company.

Ambitious Plans for Virgin Galactic

Branson outlined ambitious growth plans for Virgin Galactic, predicting that within two years, the company could send up to 700 people per year into space. The spacecraft, he said, would eventually fly twice a week, which he believes will help drive down ticket prices.

Currently, the cost of a Virgin Galactic spaceflight stands at £356,000 per passenger, with trips launching from New Mexico after a two-month preparation process.

Cornwall’s Spaceport Ready for Talks About Space Tourism Flights

Ross Hulbert, head of engagement at Spaceport Cornwall, confirmed that discussions with Virgin Galactic would be welcomed.

“As Europe’s leading horizontal launch solution, we would welcome discussions with Virgin Galactic about launch from the UK,” he told The Times. He added that as the first UK spaceport to successfully launch, Cornwall already has the infrastructure and regulatory expertise to support such missions.

UK Space Agency Open to Collaboration

The UK Space Agency (UKSA) has also expressed interest in working with Branson’s team. Dr Paul Bate, UKSA’s chief executive, acknowledged the significance of a business leader of Branson’s calibre looking to expand operations in the UK.

“When someone who is a business leader, one of the best entrepreneurs in the world, says they want to launch in the UK, then of course let’s work that through together,” he said. However, he emphasised that the responsibility lies with Virgin Galactic to engage with spaceports and determine their specific needs.

UK Expanding Its Space Sector

While Spaceport Cornwall is currently the only operational UK spaceport, other sites are in development. SaxaVord Spaceport in Shetland recently secured licensing for vertical rocket launches and is aiming to achieve the first orbital launch from European soil. Additional UK spaceports are under construction in:

• Sutherland (Scotland)
• Western Isles (Outer Hebrides)

Meanwhile, the UK Civil Aviation Authority has granted its first license for in-orbit manufacturing, with Space Forge set to launch a satellite for this purpose.

Virgin Orbit’s Failed Attempt in Cornwall

Virgin Orbit, another Branson venture, attempted a satellite launch from Spaceport Cornwall in January 2023. However, the mission ended in failure when the rocket failed to ignite after being released from a jet. The company shut down shortly after.

Brian Cox Highlights UK Space Potential

Speaking at the Space-Comm Expo, Professor Brian Cox reinforced the UK’s ability to contribute to global space projects.

“Does the UK have the capability to build space station modules? The answer is yes. It’s about the investment. We have the capability to do it,” Cox stated.