ESA Plans Satellite Launches from SaxaVord Spaceport Using RFA Rocket
The European Space Agency (ESA) has announced plans for two satellite launches from SaxaVord Spaceport in Unst, utilizing rockets from German company RFA, with the first test flight expected in late 2026. The missions will include the Lurbat satellite for Earth observation and two CubeSats from Indra Space, aimed at conducting atmospheric experiments. Both missions will use the RFA One launch vehicle, part of ESA's Flight Ticket Initiative, which is co-funded by ESA and the EU.
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The European Space Agency (ESA) has announced two upcoming satellite launches from SaxaVord Spaceport in Unst, utilizing rockets from German company RFA. The first test flight by RFA is anticipated in the third quarter of 2026.
One mission, named Lurbat, will transmit Earth-observation data from a small satellite to research centers in Spain, featuring two propulsion systems: one using water from solar-powered electrolysis and another utilizing porous material to generate ions. A second mission involves launching two CubeSats developed by Indra Space, which will conduct five experiments, including measuring electron temperatures and ion density in the atmosphere, in collaboration with the Royal Belgian Institute for Space Aeronomy.
Both missions will employ the RFA One launch vehicle, part of ESA's Flight Ticket Initiative, co-funded by ESA and the EU. No launches have occurred yet from SaxaVord, but RFA holds the first launch license and exclusive use of a launchpad there.
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