PARLIAMENTARY EARLY DAY MOTION
Skyrora and UK's first rocket launch test in 50 years (19 May 2020)

That this House congratulates Midlothian based Skyrora Ltd on completing the UK’s first ground rocket test in Scotland in 50 years; commends its work in making the UK ready for launching rockets into space after its team successfully built a mobile launch complex and completed a full static fire test with the Skylark-L rocket on it in only five days; recognises that Skyrora's achievements signify the first vertical static fire test of this magnitude in the UK since the Black Arrow Programme, 50 years ago; notes that the Skylark L rocket could be ready to launch from a British spaceport by spring 2021 and the inaugural launch of the low Earth orbital (LEO) Skyrora XL rocket by 2023; further notes that the company plan to use its Ecosene, an equivalent Kerosene fuel made from un-recyclable plastic waste; recognises the mammoth efforts and expert handling of everyone involved in the operation which was carried out whilst having to adhere to very strict social distancing measures, and in the remote location of the Scottish highlands; credits Skyrora in its aim to cater for the growing demand to send commercial satellites into space using a combination of proven technology, advanced manufacturing and detailed knowledge; applauds this historic milestone that is the start of the UK’s new space revolution, a fantastic example of the potential that the UK Space industry holds for future; and wishes Skyrora every success as it is poised to make the UK a serious leader in the space business once again.

Sponsored by:
Owen Thompson (Scottish National Party)