virgin galactic

Virgin Galactic and Spaceport America have signed a deal with the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for spaceflights from New Mexico.

The deal is the first to cover a commercial spaceline, and allows Virgin to license space flights from its base in the state of New Mexico, US. In addition, it paves the way for commercial flights of the space plane, SpaceShipTwo, which is currently being developed.

It also sets out the parameters for how commercial, licensed space launches from Spaceport America will be integrated into US air space.

"Our team is working hard to begin routine and affordable space launches from Spaceport America and this agreement brings us another step closer to that goal."

In addition, the agreement outlines how the FAA’s air traffic control centre in Albuquerque and the New Mexico Spaceport Authority will work with Virgin Galactic to ensure safe airspace for the SpaceShipTwo.

The New Mexico Spaceport Authority also has agreements with the US Army’s White Sands Missile Range (WSMR) to support space launch operations within WSMR airspace.

In addition, Virgin Galactic currently has agreements with Edwards Air Force Base and the FAA’s Joshua Control facility to allow spaceflights in California.

Virgin Galactic CEO George Whitesides said: "Our team is working hard to begin routine and affordable space launches from Spaceport America and this agreement brings us another step closer to that goal."

Image: The deal sets out the parameters for how the flights will be integrated into US air space. Photo: courtesy of Virgin Galactic.

Defence Technology