Without a Canadian spaceport, and no Technology Safeguards Agreement with the US, C6 Launch Systems is heading south of the border to perform a variety of tests for its rocket.
The agreement signed with Spaceport America in New Mexico will see the company validate “avionics, engine control, ground control and communications subsystems” for its small satellite launch vehicle.
C6 will head to Spaceport America next January to for six weeks where it “will install a new vertical test stand and conduct system integration tests including several engine firings at Spaceport America.”
C6 is using the Ursa Major Technologies Hadley engine which is a liquid oxygen and kerosene engine that’s been under development for several years and is now certified for flight. As a US based company however there are restrictions on the export of the engine, including to Canada. C6 is happy that Canada and the US are working towards putting in place a Technology Safeguards Agreement that would allow Ursa Major to export the engine, with certain conditions, for use in Canada. But it’s not in place yet and there is no public timeline when the agreement will come into effect.
In a press release Scott McLaughlin, Spaceport America’s Interim Executive Director said “C6 Launch is a young, innovative company, part of the new frontier of commercial space developments, and a perfect fit for our site. We are glad to play an important role in their growth, and hope to be a partner for many years to come.”
Richard McCammon, President of C6 Launch Systems said “Spaceport America has been great to work with over the past few months. I am truly excited about our new partnership. This integration test is a major milestone for us as we continue to develop our launch vehicle.”