German aerospace firm Rocket Factory Augsburg (RFA) has reached another key milestone in preparations for its planned launch from Scotland-based SaxaVord Spaceport this summer.
RFA has announced it has submitted its application for a marine licence ahead of its first test flight from SaxaVord Spaceport. This licence will establish maritime exclusion zones to manage debris and ensure safe launch operations.
Highlighting the milestone in a LinkedIn post, the firm said: “For the first time, the application also specifies a potential launch window, which will open no earlier than 1 July 2026. This is a legally required step for planning, and a good sign of how far we’ve come – but it’s not a launch date just yet.
“We applied for this window because we’re working hard to be ready – and we’re getting closer every day.”
If RFA does indeed successfully launch its RFA One rocket this summer, it will mark the first orbital launch from UK soil.
The SaxaVord Spaceport, which was originally a Cold War...