Spaceport Cornwall and Machrihanish in the UK have been shortlisted by ESA as test locations for the INVICTUS research programme. According to ESA’s Director of Technology, Dietmar Pilz, this program will play a vital role in Europe’s future in space access, ensuring the region remains competitive.
The INVICTUS Research Programme Holds A Lot Of Potential For Europe
The INVICTUS research program aims to develop hypersonic technology that will be used in future horizontal launch reusable vehicles. As part of its operations, the program will test critical innovations like advanced propulsion, thermal protection, and guidance systems in real-world conditions.
By testing these innovations, ESA will be able to make necessary adjustments, preparing the technology for actual usage. For the sake of this testing, ESA has shortlisted Spaceport Cornwall and Machrihanish as testing locations for INVICTUS.
“The shortlisting of Spaceport Cornwall and Machrihanish demonstrates the UK’s infrastructure and expertise in advancing cutting-edge aerospace technologies,” says Tony Forsythe, Head of Space Technology at the UK Space Agency. Forsythe points out that this programme will be responsible for “creating high-value jobs, driving regional growth, and developing skills that will benefit the UK for generations to come.”
Speaking on the shortlisted spaceports in the UK, Sarah Wilkes, Managing Director at Frazer-Nash Consultancy, said, “We’re excited to collaborate with Spaceport Cornwall and Machrihanish to establish a European hypersonic test capability here in the UK.” Noah Law, Member of Parliament for St Austell and Newquay, also says “INVICTUS would be an immensely welcome, long-term partner for and the kind that such a fine aerospace asset as Spaceport Cornwall – with one of the longest runways in the country and dedicated airspace – deserves.”
Richard Lochhead, Minister of Business for Scotland, says, “Machrihanish offers a unique opportunity to host hypersonic test operations and an exciting new platform to continue driving growth in Scotland’s burgeoning space sector whilst reinforcing our commitment to innovation and sustainability.” The INVICTUS research programme will drive collaboration between European member states whilst delivering competitive space access systems.