Azores Spaceport Gains Authorization For Controlled Re-Entry Operations

The Portuguese National Space Authority has granted the first European license for a controlled commercial spacecraft re-entry, enabling the Azores Spaceport to perform re-entry operations. The spaceport, located on the island of Santa Maria, will be used by ATMOS Space Cargo for the launch and recovery of its PHOENIX 2.1 mission, which utilizes innovative Inflatable Atmospheric Decelerator technology for re-entry. This development marks a significant milestone for European commercial space activities, with the Azores Spaceport poised to become a key player in the region’s space industry. The news was first reported by AeroTime.