Skyrora, a space technology company based in the U.K., currently stands as the sole private organization with the capability to launch rockets directly from British territory. On December 24th, at their testing site in Fife, Scotland, the team successfully completed a static fire test of the third stage engine on a new vehicle designed to deliver satellites to their intended orbits. Notably, this vehicle possesses the ability to reignite its engine multiple times while in orbit, enabling it to undertake several missions during a single deployment. This functionality designates it as a “Space Tug,” capable of executing a variety of in-space operations, such as the removal of orbital debris or the servicing of existing satellites.

Skyrora was an early participant in the Space Camp accelerator program, facilitated by Seraphim Capital.

This Space Tug represents the first fully “mission ready” vehicle of its type to be created within the U.K., and once operational, it can independently navigate to any desired location in space, with the flexibility to make numerous stops along the way.

The Space Tug utilizes a 3.5kN engine manufactured using 3D-printing technology, and its initial launch phase is powered by an environmentally responsible fuel (Ecosene) partially derived from recycled plastic waste.

Volodymyr Levykin, Skyrora’s CEO, stated: “We have intentionally maintained a low profile regarding this aspect of our Skyrora XL launch vehicle, as we faced significant technical hurdles in its development and wanted to confirm successful test results, which we now have. Given the present circumstances and a need for positive developments, we believe this is an appropriate time to share this information… Our goal is to not only facilitate efficient and environmentally conscious launches from U.K. soil, but also to maximize the utility of each launch, achieving the workload that would traditionally require multiple missions.”

Astronaut Sir Tim Peake remarked: “It is truly encouraging to see companies like Skyrora continuing to pursue their ambition of establishing the U.K. as a ‘launch state’. Through consistent investment in their engineering expertise and ongoing innovation, the U.K. continues to reap the benefits of these remarkable achievements. By successfully conducting a full fire test of their third stage – which functions as an Orbital Manoeuvring Vehicle capable of placing satellites into precise orbits – Skyrora is progressing closer to launch preparedness. This vehicle will also be equipped to perform essential tasks such as satellite decommissioning, refueling, replacement, and the removal of space debris.”