A new North Sea project is picking up speed: four European rocket manufacturers are planning a launch platform in the North Sea. The first mini-rockets are scheduled to launch into space from there in 2023.
A rocket platform in the North Sea is approaching. Four European rocket manufacturers signed letters of intent for cooperation with the German Offshore Spaceport Alliance (GOSA) in Berlin on Monday. Industry President Siegfried Russwurm said that start-ups and medium-sized companies in particular would benefit from simplified and flexible access to space.
A launch platform in the North Sea is central to a “New Space value chain”. “New Space” describes the increasing commercialization of space travel. One of the building blocks here is the construction of small satellites that can be launched with new mini-rockets, so-called microlaunchers.
A floating launch platform for these small launch vehicles is planned in the North Sea, specifically a special ship with a launch pad. According to Allianz GOSA, the home port should be Bremerhaven. The goal is to realize the first launch of a micro launcher from the North Sea in 2023. The German Offshore Spaceport Alliance includes companies such as the space and technology company OHB.
Altmaier wants to strengthen the German space industry
Federal Minister of Economics Peter Altmaier (CDU) announced a “New Space Small Satellite Initiative”. The aim is to specifically strengthen the German space industry and bring cutting-edge technology to bear. Small satellites belong to the future, said the minister in Berlin. Space is a “dynamic growth market”.
For example, data on climate and environmental protection as well as disaster control could be obtained through small satellites, said Altmaier. The state could therefore become an “anchor customer” of a launch platform.
The next step is now a feasibility study, half of which is financed by the federal government. The aim is to clarify legal and regulatory issues relating to a launch platform.
Jane Stock is a technology author, who has written for 24 Hours World. She writes about the latest in technology news and trends, and is always on the lookout for new and innovative ways to improve his audience’s experience.
