European officials and Swedish King Carl XVI Gustaf inaugurated the first spaceport to launch satellites on the European Union mainland.
As reported by Ukrinform, this was reported by the AP.
The new facility at the Esrange Space Center near Kiruna, Sweden, will complement the EU’s existing capacity to launch satellites from the spaceport in French Guiana.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said small satellites are crucial for real-time monitoring of natural disasters and help ensure global security in light of Russia’s war in Ukraine.
“Today we know that the brave Ukrainian army is effectively using small satellites to monitor the movements of Russian troops,” he said.
It was noted that the first launch of the satellite is expected next year.
The total number of satellites launched could reach 100,000 by 2040.
As reported by Ukrinform, rocket manufacturer Orbex will build and operate a spaceport on the A Moine peninsula in northwest Scotland.
Photo: TTNews Agency