Astra Looks to Expand Launch
Capacity with Saxavord UK Spaceport
May 10, 2022
Astra Space, Inc. and SaxaVord
UK Spaceport announced that they are partnering to
increase access to space, by providing dedicated
orbital launch services to a growing satellite
market. Subject to the entry of definitive
agreements and regulatory approvals, rocket launches
are expected to begin in 2023.
“This agreement between
SaxaVord Spaceport and Astra is great news for
Shetland and represents another step towards our
shared ambition of bringing vertical launch
satellite capability to Scotland,” said Ivan McKee,
Scottish Minister for Business, Trade, Tourism and
Enterprise. “Companies like this are vital to
achieving the aims of our National Strategy for
Economic Transformation that will support a nation
of entrepreneurs and innovators in areas like small
satellite technology and Scotland’s growing space
industry.”
With its flexible, mobile
approach, Astra can transport and connect a fully
functional launch system to a simple concrete pad
for launches. SaxaVord UK Spaceport would expand
Astra’s capacity at key inclinations. Together, they
are expected to accelerate access to space for
customers launching in the UK.
“Astra is an agile, fast-moving
company on pace to establish a successful track
record,” said Robin Huber, Director of Business
Development at SaxaVord UK Spaceport. “We look
forward to working with their team to build new
launch capabilities in the UK. Their mission to
improve life on Earth from space is closely aligned
with our own values, and we believe that this
exciting new relationship will develop into a
strong, lasting partnership.”
“The additional inclinations,
flexibility and launch capacity that this
partnership enables will allow us to meet the needs
of Astra’s customers and align directly with
SaxaVord UK Spaceport’s economic investment and
environmental goals,” said Matt Ganser, Vice
President of Business Operations at Astra. “We are
excited to work with this partner to open another
spaceport from which we would hope to meet the
growing demand for dedicated launch out of the UK.”
“This new partnership between
Astra and SaxaVord UK Spaceport is another great
example of the strong interest from the
international space community in operating from UK
spaceports,” said Matt Archer, Director of
Commercial Space at the UK Space Agency. “By
attracting global partners and developing a
home-grown launch industry, we can cater for the
diverse needs of small satellite manufacturers and
operators, while benefitting people and businesses
across the UK. It is fantastic to welcome Astra into
the UK’s thriving launch community.”
Learn more about expanded
launch capacity at Astra’s inaugural Spacetech Day,
which will be webcast live on the Company’s investor
relations website at approximately 9 am PT, with a
replay will be available following the event. Visit
astra.com/spacetech-day-2022 to register.
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