Space Forge gets green light for space factory launch

UK startup Space Forge has recently made headlines by securing a licence to launch its innovative space factory. The licence, granted by the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), will enable the launch of the ForgeStar-1 later this year. The primary goal of this mission is to test the manufacturing of power semiconductor materials in orbit, as well as to evaluate the heat shield technology that allows these materials to safely return to Earth.

Space enthusiasts may recall the setback faced by Space Forge earlier this year when the ForgeStar-0 was onboard the aborted Virgin Orbit mission in January 2023 from the Newquay spaceport in Cornwall. Despite this setback, the recent licence approval marks a significant milestone for Space Forge, paving the way for their first in-orbit demonstration mission. This mission aims to establish a scalable, returnable, and re-launchable platform for manufacturing high-performance semiconductor materials in space.

One of the key objectives of the upcoming ForgeStar-1 mission is to test the mechanics of the Pridwen heat shield, which is crucial for ensuring the safe and reusable re-entry of satellites. This mission represents a crucial step forward in the development of space manufacturing capabilities and could have far-reaching implications for the future of space exploration and industry.

Colin Macleod, Head of the UK Space Regulator at the UK Civil Aviation Authority, expressed his excitement about the licence approval, stating, “This is a ground-breaking licence for the UK space sector that paves the way for in-orbit manufacturing and the amazing potential of this new industry. Through our work with innovators in the space sector, we are enabling exciting new space missions and supporting the industry to grow.”

Joshua Western, CEO and Co-Founder of Space Forge, also shared his enthusiasm about the licence award, highlighting its significance as a key mission milestone. He stated, “This licence award is a key mission milestone and we’re looking forward to demonstrating how our scalable, reusable manufacturing platform can drive progress and benefits for us on Earth. Space Forge is breaking new ground being the first UK company to achieve a licence for in-orbit manufacturing.”