Scotland's first space launch is one small step closer after American giant Lockheed Martin chose where they want their rocket to blast off from.
The multi-billion dollar firm plans to send a craft into orbit from a launch pad at the isle of Unst in Shetland by next year.
And now they have selected a rocket called the RS1, will be provided by ABL Space Systems of El Segundo, California.
If successful next year's launch would be the UK’s first ever vertical satellite launch.
The project is called UK Pathfinder Launch and was backed by the UK government with more than £23million.
Bosses at Lockheed Martin say the rocket and their systems will mean 'a rapid and cost-effective deployment' for the project.
The spacecraft being launched from Shetland's most northernly isle may end up being no bigger than a shoebox.
Harry O'Hanley, co-Founder and CEO of ABL Space Systems said: “ABL Space Systems is proud to partner with Lockheed Martin on the UK Pathfinder Launch Program.
"Our team was founded to deliver new launch capabilities, on-demand. We're thrilled at the opportunity to bring our system to Shetland’s launch site and execute this ground-breaking mission with our partners.”
Ian Annett, Deputy CEO, UK Space Agency said: “We want the UK to be the first in Europe to launch small satellites into orbit, attracting innovative businesses from all over the world, accelerating the development of new technologies and creating hundreds of high-skilled jobs across the whole of the UK.
"Lockheed Martin’s selection of ABL Space Systems for their UK Pathfinder launch brings us one step closer to realising this ambition – putting the UK firmly on the map as Europe’s leading small satellite launch destination.
“In this challenging time, it’s more important than ever that we support technologies that will help create jobs and economic growth, enabling people and businesses across the country to benefit from the commercial opportunities offered by the UK’s growing space sector and the many firms throughout its supply chain.”
The 88ft tall RS1 is a two-stage vehicle, burning kerosene and liquid oxygen.
The first launch has potentially been set for 2022.
