The end of 2025 may witness the launch of a new rocket, RFA One, from Rocket Factory Augsburg (RFA), at the private spaceport SaxaVord on the island of Unst in Scotland. The 30-meter tall rocket can deliver up to 1300 kg to sun-synchronous orbit; however, for the first launch, the payload will be limited to 500 kg. The upper stage Redshift may remain in orbit after completing its mission.
In August 2024, during the testing of the first stage at the spaceport, an explosion occurred due to a liquid oxygen turbo pump failure. RFA implemented 20 software improvements in the valve control and ventilation systems.
The Helix engine, weighing 200 kg, produces 100 kN thrust, consuming 30 kg of kerosene and liquid oxygen per second. The SaxaVord spaceport, located on the island of Unst in Scotland, became the first licensed site for vertical launches in Western Europe.
The launch window for RFA One's debut is scheduled for October-December 2025. The success of this mission will pave the way for the reusable use of the rocket's first stage.