Billed as British history in the making, on Monday a specially adapted jumbo jet left the runway at the country’s first operational spaceport and launched a rocket into space.
However, the rocket failed during its second stage and, according to operator Virgin Orbit, suffered an “anomaly” that resulted in the satellites it was carrying failing to reach orbit, ending the mission.
Although Monday’s failed launch was a major setback for those involved, Melissa Thorpe, head of Spaceport Cornwall, said it had “inspired millions and will continue to inspire millions more.”
The British space industry is expanding at a relatively fast pace, its budget is increasing, and its ambition is gaining momentum….