For the first time, satellites will be launched into orbit from UK soil, as the « Start Me Up » mission is ready for take off tonight.
The first ever orbital satellite launch from the UK — and Europe — is set for takeoff tonight (Monday, January 9). The so-called “Start Me UP” mission, led by US-based Virgin Orbit, will set out from Spaceport Cornwall at Newquay Airport at around 21:15 UTC.
You can watch the launch via Virgin Orbit’s livestream below:
At the center of the mission is a modified Boeing 747 aircraft, the Cosmic Girl, which is fitted with Virgin Orbit’s Launcher One rocket carrying nine civil and defense satellites.
