EDINBURGH-based Skyrora, which plans to launch satellites into orbit from the Highlands and Islands, has set up a new engine test base.
The firm’s chief executive, Volodymyr Levykin, said the establishment of the facility in Fife was a “giant leap forward” for Scotland’s growing reputation as a “space hub.”
Skyrora has estimated its new test facility will help it create more than 170 jobs, mainly in manufacturing and operations.
The company, which has a production facility in Lothian, carried out a test flight of the first rocket to be launched from Shetland, which followed two launches from Kildermorie Estate, near Alness, in Easter Ross.
Skyrora has already tested engines for two of its rockets at its new facility.
Mr Levykin said: “The opening of our engine test complex represents a giant leap forward for the UK’s ambitions as a space nation and Scotland’s status as a space hub.
“Skyrora has developed and come so far as a team and a company, and I am really proud to see how many milestones we have achieved in a short period of time.”
Skyrora engineering manager Jack-James Marlow, Skyrora engineering manager, added: “Our engine test complex is a fantastic opportunity for Skyrora and the UK Space industry.
“Scotland is heading towards an unprecedented growth in UK space and our complex is one step closer to achieving this. We are planning to test all our engines, which are fully 3D printed and operate on high-test peroxide at the site.”
