Rocket Factory Augsburg (RFA) has secured a launch license from the UK Civil Aviation Authority for its inaugural rocket launch, scheduled for 2025. This event marks a significant milestone for the company, which faced setbacks last year when parts of a rocket ignited during testing in August 2024, delaying the launch by a year.
RFA, a subsidiary of the Bremen-based aerospace group OHB, is developing a microlauncher system aimed at providing cost-effective satellite launches. The 'RFA One' rocket can carry payloads of up to 1.3 tons and is designed to deploy satellites for various applications, including internet, navigation, and Earth observation.
The launch will take place from the Saxavord spaceport in northern Scotland, which has been selected as the operational base. RFA has indicated that it is now focusing on final technical preparations for the test flight following the receipt of the launch license.
This license is notable as it is the first European launch license issued outside the ESA's Kourou site in French Guiana, highlighting RFA's role in expanding access to space.