Industry Backs UK Government Spaceport Plans

UK spaceport artist rendition. Photo: Gov.UK

[Via Satellite 03-06-2015] Publishing the outcome of a 3-month spaceport consultation with a range of interested parties, the U.K. government confirmed widespread support for its plans. This paves the way toward making commercial spaceflight operations in the U.K. a reality.

The U.K. Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) had shortlisted a number of possible locations for the spaceport in July 2014, which have been updated in the consultation. The shortlisted sites are now Campbeltown, Glasgow Prestwick and Stornoway in Scotland, as well as Newquay in England and Llanbedr in Wales. RAF Leuchars was also confirmed as a potential temporary facility.

The government has ruled out two airfields at RAF Lossiemouth and Kinloss Barracks for operational reasons, given their vital role in defense. Other locations can still be submitted if operators believe they can fulfill the requirements.

The next step is for the U.K. Department for Transport to develop a detailed technical specification of spaceport requirements, prior to inviting proposals. This is due to be published later this year.