UK Space Launches

Guide

UK Spaceports

The United Kingdom now hosts a network of licensed and in-development spaceports — from vertical launch sites on the country's northern edge to horizontal facilities repurposed from existing airfields. Here's a directory of every UK spaceport, what it does, and where it is in its journey to launch.

SaxaVord Spaceport

Unst, Shetland Islands, Scotland

Vertical launch

The UK's first fully licensed vertical launch spaceport, on the UK's northernmost inhabited island. Its high latitude (60.8° N) is ideal for polar and sun-synchronous orbits used by Earth-observation constellations. Host to launch operators including Rocket Factory Augsburg (RFA) and HyImpulse. Formerly known as Shetland Space Centre; rebranded SaxaVord Spaceport in 2022.

Operator
SaxaVord Spaceport Ltd
Status
Licensed — first UK vertical launches expected
Visit official site →

Sutherland Spaceport

A'Mhòine peninsula, Sutherland, Scottish Highlands

Vertical launch

A dedicated vertical launch facility in development for small satellite missions. Original anchor tenant Orbex has shifted its first Prime launches to SaxaVord, leaving Sutherland's timeline uncertain.

Operator
Highlands and Islands Enterprise / Orbex
Status
In development
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Spaceport Cornwall

Cornwall Airport Newquay, England

Horizontal launch

A horizontal spaceport enabling air-launched missions using modified aircraft. Site of the first orbital launch attempt from UK soil (Virgin Orbit's Cosmic Girl, January 2023).

Operator
Cornwall Council
Status
Operational (horizontal launch)
Visit official site →

Snowdonia Spaceport (Llanbedr)

Llanbedr, Gwynedd, Wales

Horizontal launch

A horizontal launch and testing site in north Wales, targeting sub-orbital research flights, high-altitude testing and future horizontal orbital missions.

Operator
Snowdonia Aerospace
Status
In development

Prestwick Spaceport

Glasgow Prestwick Airport, Scotland

Horizontal launch

Proposed horizontal spaceport using the existing runway at Prestwick Airport for air-launched missions and space plane operations.

Operator
Prestwick Spaceport Ltd
Status
In development

Track launches from these sites

See the next scheduled launches from UK spaceports on the home page, with live countdowns and mission details.