By Ian McConnell
Shetland Space Centre declared yesterday it had secured a “further boost” with the announcement by German rocket maker HyImpulse Technologies of its intention to launch from Unst.
The space centre said the German company planned to begin engine-testing and launching sub-orbital sounding rockets in Shetland this year with a view to a maiden orbital flight in 2023.
HyImpulse co-chief executive Christian Schmierer said: “We have signed letters of intent with several potential customers to take their payloads into orbit.
“It was therefore very important for us to secure a launch pad and site ahead of time and to start with our mission-planning. Shetland Space Centre allows us to offer frequent, reliable access to space with a great variety of efficient flight routes.”
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Shetland Space Centre noted that HyImpulse Technologies had pioneered environmentally friendly hybrid fuel technology which would be deployed in all launches.
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Co-chief executive Mario Kobald said: “Our engine will be green and we are pleased to see their emphasis on environmental and social responsibilities.”
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