The first attempt to launch satellites into orbit from British soil ended in “painful” failure at the final hurdle last night as the rocket reached space but fell short of the right altitude, with its million-pound satellite payload to break. in the atmosphere
An investigation is now underway to find out why, after the first stage engine had successfully launched the rocket and its payload of nine satellites into space, the second stage engine suffered an “anomaly ” unknown and was unable to guide the rocket to its designated location. orbit
There was a festive atmosphere among the waiting audience
HENRY NICHOLLS/REUTERS
A crowd of more than 2,000 spectators in Cornwall had shouted and cheered amid a festival atmosphere at Britain’s first spaceport as a Virgin Orbit plane, carrying a 24-tonne rocket below.