2026. The rocket, dubbed XL, is being built at a factory in Cumbernauld, North Lanarkshire.
Previous Launch Attempt and Lessons Learned
This comes after the company unsuccessfully tried to launch a smaller rocket called Skylark from Iceland in 2022. A software problem led to the rocket falling into the sea after lift-off.
Race for Satellite Launch in Europe
Several companies are racing to become the first to launch satellites into space on European soil, with several planning on using SaxaVord Spaceport on the Shetland Islands.
Skyrora’s Plans for UK-Based Launch
Alan Thompson, Skyrora’s head of government affairs, said the Glasgow-based company is keen to carry out its next flight attempt from the UK, where its factory and testing site are based.
He told the PA news agency it hopes to launch as a “proof of concept” from SaxaVord around this summer, though discussions with the spaceport’s owners are ongoing.
Timeline for the XL Rocket Launch
He said 2026 is the “realistic” timescale for launching XL, which can carry up to 315kg to a sun-synchronous orbit. Its first stage will use nine engines firing together, and Skyrora aims to do its first test-firing of the full stage in the second half of this year.
