Canadian rockets company backs site on island

A Canadian rocket firm has thrown its support behind the proposed Shetland Space Centre, claiming the site would provide the “perfect” conditions for lift-off.

C6 Launch Systems wants to launch nano satellites weighing about five stone into the atmosphere from the Unst site, and has signed a letter of intent declaring its intention to use it as its primary launch facility.

The site’s northern location is argued to provide huge value to the firm to achieve the “perfect orbit”.

“Richard and his team have been very clear about their needs”

Richard Mc Cammon, president of C6 Launch, said the Shetland Space Centre “will provide all the infrastructure, from launchpad to data communications and tracking, that we could ask for”.

He added: “Being at the northernmost location in Scotland gives us the latitude we need to insert nano satellites to the perfect orbit.”

Frank Strang, chief executive of the centre, said: “We are looking forward greatly to this collaboration with C6 Launch Systems.

“Richard and his team have been very clear about their needs and hugely supportive of our plans to provide a route to market for small satellites here in Shetland.”

The Unst development is estimated to provide Shetland with a £3 million boost to its road network, with a year-round tourist attraction created and schools benefiting from increased rolls.

Up to 30 rocket launches a year could take place from the site. It is hope operations will be approved by 2021.