Spaceport Cornwall Shortlisted by ESA for INVICTUS Hypersonic Test Programme

Spaceport Cornwall Shortlisted by ESA

Spaceport Cornwall has been shortlisted by the European Space Agency as a potential location for its INVICTUS hypersonic flight test programme. The announcement, made on 25th November, puts Cornwall in the running to support a major step forward in future flight technologies.

INVICTUS aims to create a European hypersonic flight test platform that will bridge the gap between research carried out on the ground and full-scale flight demonstrations. The programme is designed to support advances in reusable launch systems, high-speed flight and next-generation aerospace development for civil, commercial and defence use across Europe.

Why Cornwall Made the List

Operating from Cornwall Airport Newquay, Spaceport Cornwall worked with Frazer Nash Consultancy on the UK’s operational concept for hosting INVICTUS activity. The site’s multi-role status as a licensed spaceport, commercial airport, civil aerodrome and active military environment next to RAF St Mawgan played a key role in its shortlisting.

The location offers one of the longest runways in the UK, flexible airspace suitable for hypersonic profiling, horizontal launch infrastructure and direct access to Atlantic flight corridors. The presence of both civilian and military aviation facilities adds to its suitability. According to the press release, this combination provides an unparalleled setting for testing technologies that will underpin reusable spaceplanes, advanced propulsion systems and sovereign hypersonic flight capability.

Reactions to the Shortlisting

Tony Forsythe, Head of Space Technology at the UK Space Agency, said: “The shortlisting of Spaceport Cornwall and Machrihanish demonstrates the UK’s infrastructure and expertise in advancing cutting-edge aerospace technologies. INVICTUS represents exactly the kind of ambitious, collaborative programme that could cement the UK’s position as a European leader in space innovation.

“By pioneering reusable spaceplane technologies and hypersonic flight capabilities, we’re potentially not only opening new frontiers for space access but also creating high-value jobs, driving regional growth, and developing skills that will benefit the UK for generations to come.”

Noah Law, Member of Parliament for St Austell and Newquay, said: “INVICTUS would be an immensely welcome, long-term partner for and the kind that such a fine aerospace asset as Spaceport Cornwall with one of the longest runways in the country and dedicated airspace deserves.”

Ross Hulbert, Head of Engagement at Spaceport Cornwall, said: “Being shortlisted for INVICTUS is a significant moment for Spaceport Cornwall and underscores our commitment to advancing the UK’s future flight and hypersonic ambitions. Our world-class facilities, operational versatility, and strategic position within both civilian and military aviation infrastructures place us in a leading role to support this transformational European programme.”

What Happens If Cornwall Is Selected

If Spaceport Cornwall is chosen, it would host INVICTUS operations, integration campaigns and flight activities. This would build on its growing role in national capability development, including its selection for the UK Ministry of Defence’s Hypersonic Technologies and Capability Development Framework.

The full ESA announcement can be read on the European Space Agency website: Two UK sites shortlisted for INVICTUS

About Spaceport Cornwall

Spaceport Cornwall is the UK’s first licensed spaceport and is based at Cornwall Airport Newquay. It supports small satellite launches and offers consultancy services to space companies and spaceports worldwide, along with facilities and workspace as part of the Cornwall Space Cluster. The site states that it operates under the motto “Space for Good”.