UK Government funds renewable-fuelled rocket project

The UK Government has made its first-ever direct investment in British orbital launch capability, committing GBP 20 million to spaceflight company Orbex, whose rockets run on renewable Liquid Gas.

Orbex’s Prime rocket combines cutting-edge technology with a strong focus on sustainability. As Europe’s first reusable rocket, Prime is designed to significantly reduce carbon emissions by using renewable Liquid Gas. This eco-friendly approach sets it apart from other rockets in development worldwide. Additionally, many of the rocket’s components are 3D printed.

The company explained it has chosen to use the renewable form of LPG to deliver “a sustainable solution for deploying satellites into Earth’s orbit."

A study by the University of Exeter showed that a single launch of the Orbex Prime rocket will produce up to 96% lower carbon emissions than comparable space launch systems using fossil fuels. Prime is also a re-usable rocket which has been engineered to leave zero debris in orbit.

Phillip Chambers, CEO of Orbex, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “This investment is a testament to the UK government’s confidence in our capabilities. With our Prime rocket, we are set to deliver the most flexible and environmentally sustainable launch services to the global satellite industry.”

Source: Voxel Matters / Orbex

Photo: Orbex