In a landscape where collaboration, sustainability, cost and security are paramount, two global infrastructure firms are combining forces to address complex challenges and enhance global launch capabilities at a time where demand for access to space has never been higher.
Edinburgh, UK [November 14, 2024] – The growing international demand for obtaining actionable insights from space to support multiple business sectors, the environment, security and wider society has created an increased interest from nations seeking to develop their own launch capabilities.
Fire Arrow, a firm focused on leveraging expertise gained across the UK spaceport projects to support the design and build on new licensed international launch sites around the world, has announced its latest in a series of high-profile associate relationships.
Based in Scotland but working globally, Fire Arrow is focused on addressing the growing demand for access to lucrative orbits from emerging space nations by providing extensive services to support clients to verify the technical and business case for spaceport developments before guiding them through feasibility, design and build towards licensed orbital launches. The company has initiated partnerships with ‘best in class’ associate organisations to develop a consortium-based proposition focused on enabling governments and commercial organisations to achieve safe, responsive and affordable access to space. The approach has already started to reap benefits, with the company signing an Expression of Interest with Malaysia’s Gading Group at Space-Comm Expo on 12 September in relation to the development of a horizontal spaceport in Asia, and taking part in multiple international engagements during last month’s International Astronautical Congress.
Today’s announcement sees Fire Arrow team up with NORR, an architectural and engineering firm delivering design services across 12 market sectors including Space, Transportation, Defence, Science and Research, and Education. Having previously worked with the Fire Arrow team on vertical and horizontal launch spaceport developments in the UK, the decision to collaborate with Fire Arrow comes as part of NORR’s vision to deliver future-proof, carbon-conscious infrastructure spaceport projects. NORR has a global reach with offices located in Canada, the United States, UK and the UAE.
As part of the partnership, NORR will focus on providing architectural and design services for Fire Arrow clients by leveraging Fire Arrow’s network and expertise. Kevin Stephen, Director at NORR stated, “NORR aims to further establish ourselves as an industry leader in spaceport projects. As architect and lead designer for two spaceports in Scotland, we have significant experience and knowledge of both vertical and horizontal launch facilities, including the integration of horizontal launch spaceports into operational airports.”
He added “NORR has more than 60 years’ experience working in the airport sector, so we have a detailed knowledge of airport design and the physical and security constraints associated with the design of buildings for the live airport environment. We have significant experience delivering complex projects, involving multiple stakeholders and complying with all regulatory requirements. We are also committed to low carbon design and incorporate sustainable building practices into all projects”.
He added, “The Fire Arrow team is aligned with our aim to become a pioneer in sustainable spaceport developments and we look forward to working with them in the future.”
NORR’s experience was demonstrated in two spaceport projects in Scotland, where they were able to successfully navigate challenges such as the proximity to population and the presence of propellant on site. Those projects empowered the company with significant experience in managing both vertical and horizontal spaceport operations.
Dr Mick O’Connor, Fire Arrow Managing Director, commented, “We are delighted to further our relationship with NORR. We have worked together on previous projects and formed a relationship based on mutual trust and respect. We are currently pursuing several global spaceport opportunities; the addition of NORR to the consortium brings expert design capability.”
The partnership between NORR and Fire Arrow illustrates the growing interest in space launch and the increasing collaboration between diverse industries to drive innovation and growth in the sector. With sustainability at the core of their vision, both organisations are committed to delivering exceptional results and contributing to the advancement of the space industry.
