NORR, along with Arup Engineers and erz landscape architects, has designed the UK’s first satellite launch Space Hub in Sutherland, Scotland. The project will see vehicles carrying commercial satellites launched vertically into space for earth observation. NORR is supporting Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) on the venture.
The rural and naturally significant site for the $21.8 million project presents numerous challenges. The flora, fauna, and scenery behind the natural significance of the area have been considered as part of the spaceport’s design and construction.
The project includes a launch operation and control center, a launch site integration facility, a single launch pad, an antenna park, and associated site infrastructure.
SEE ALSO: Designing for the final frontier: Space architecture
Last year, the Space Hub gained consent from the Highland Council. “Gaining planning approval from the council is a huge step forward for Space Hub Sutherland. The UK’s space ambitions present a wonderful opportunity for the Highlands and Islands,” said David Oxley, Director of Business Growth with HIE, in a release. “A vertical launch spaceport is a key piece of the national jigsaw, along with the design and manufacture of satellites and launch vehicles, that will ensure Scotland can derive maximum economic benefits from this growing and exciting sector.” The first launch from the site could be as early as 2022.
In addition to the vertical launch site in Scotland, NORR is also designing a horizontal launch site at Glasgow Prestwick Airport.
Related Stories
| Jan 31, 2013
More severe wind storms should prompt nationwide reexamination of building codes, says insurance expert
The increased number and severity of storms with high winds nationally should prompt a reexamination of building codes in every community, says Mory Katz, vice president, Verisk Insurance Solutions Commercial Property, Jersey City, N.J.
| Aug 28, 2012
McCarthy begins construction on transportation center at Bob Hope Airport
Designed to meet LEED silver certification standards, the facility will feature unique, above ground base isolators that will resist a maximum credible earthquake.
| Jun 14, 2012
Viscardi joins LEO A DALY as VP, corporate director of aviation programs
Viscardi will be responsible for providing the vision and strategy for growing the firm’s aviation practice, identifying and establishing new clients, as well as maintaining existing client relationships.
| Jun 1, 2012
New BD+C University Course on Insulated Metal Panels available
By completing this course, you earn 1.0 HSW/SD AIA Learning Units.
| May 30, 2012
Construction milestone reached for $1B expansion of San Diego International Airport
Components of the $9-million structural concrete construction phase included a 700-foot-long, below-grade baggage-handling tunnel; metal decks covered in poured-in-place concrete; slab-on-grade for the new terminal; and 10 exterior architectural columns––each 56-feet tall and erected at a 14-degree angle.
| May 29, 2012
Reconstruction Awards Entry Information
Download a PDF of the Entry Information at the bottom of this page.
| May 24, 2012
2012 Reconstruction Awards Entry Form
Download a PDF of the Entry Form at the bottom of this page.
| Mar 29, 2012
U.K.’s Manchester Airport tower constructed in nine days
Time-lapse video shows construction workers on the jobsite for 222 continuous hours.
| Mar 27, 2012
Skanska hires aviation construction expert Bob Postma
Postma will manage Skanska’s nationwide in-house team of airport construction experts who lead the industry in building and renovating airport facilities and their essential features.
| Jan 4, 2012
New LEED Silver complex provides space for education and research
The academic-style facility supports education/training and research functions, and contains classrooms, auditoriums, laboratories, administrative offices and library facilities, as well as spaces for operating highly sophisticated training equipment.
