SaxaVord launch complexes (Lamba Ness)
Launch pads on Shetland's Lamba Ness peninsula, licensed for up to 30 launches a year and aimed at small rockets heading to polar orbits.
Why it matters
Europe has few licensed sites for launching rockets from its own soil. SaxaVord's far-northern location is aimed at small rockets heading to polar and sun-synchronous orbits.
How the technology works
One complex with a launch stool, pad and integration hangar is in use by Rocket Factory Augsburg; two more are under construction, along with a mission control center. Rockets and satellites are integrated in the hangar before going to the pad.
Sources
Updated Oct 21, 2026 · How we source facts · Suggest a correction