Moray MP Douglas Ross says it is “terrific” that Forres-based Orbex have been awarded over £3.3 million as part of their work in helping to deliver a spaceport in Sutherland.
Douglas – who recently visited the orbital launch services company with Scotland Office Minister John Lamont – says the funding will be a “major boost” to the company and the project as a whole.
Shetland-based Hylmpulse UK who are working on plans for the Saxavord Spaceport on the islands, received £3.4 million as part of the funding round.
The money has been distributed via the UK Space Agency’s contribution to the European Space Agency’s Boost! Programme which helps to develop space transportation services and bring them to fruition.
Douglas also says it is “great” that Orbex’s planned rocket will be the most environmentally-friendly in the world and that the plans will also help grow the local economy in Moray and across the Highlands.
Moray MP Douglas Ross said: “It is terrific news that Orbex have been awarded millions in funding as they continue to work on plans for a spaceport in Sutherland.
“I was delighted to visit their base in Forres again recently – alongside UK Government minister John Lamont – to see first-hand the excellent work that they are carrying out with their skilled workforce.
“The funding through the UK Space Agency will be a major boost for Orbex and the exciting plans for a spaceport overall.
“It is also great that the rocket that Orbex are helping to develop will be the most environmentally friendly in the world. As the local MP, I am delighted to see this company based in Forres going from strength to strength and this latest funding will hopefully create more opportunities.
“I look forward to seeing how the UK Space Agency’s funding support Orbex’s progress as we head towards a launch date.”