The next generation of small communication satellites could be launched into Earth orbit from the northern Highlands of Scotland within the next two years.

The Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) development agency has submitted a planning application for Space Hub Sutherland, which it plans to construct on the ’A’ Mhoine peninsula, Melness.

If the application is approved, the construction of Europe’s first vertical launch site could begin later this year, with launches starting in 2022.

In due course, up to 12 launches a year could be made from Sutherland, carrying small commercial satellites that will typically be used for Earth observation.

An economic impact assessment submitted with the planning application estimates that developing the space hub would
create around 60 jobs in Caithness and Sutherland — an area where the population is falling and unemployment levels are above average.

David Oxley, HIE’s director of business growth (www.hie.co.uk), believes that establishing a vertical launch capability would be a major advance for Scotland’s growing space sector.

He said: “This is an innovative venture that aims to create the first launch site of its kind in Europe. Space presents a huge economic opportunity for Scotland, and the Highlands and Islands is well placed to benefit substantially.

"Even before the space hub is built, we have received a vote of confidence from launch company Orbex, which established a manufacturing facility in Forres just over a year ago.

"We are very mindful of the need to respect the natural environment, and we have designed measures that will minimise the Environmental impact of construction and operations.

"We have also held numerous public events, and the current shape of the project has been informed by the views of local people and statutory consultees.”