Ireland’s First Commercial Rocket Launch: SUAS Aerospace and T-Minus Engineering Team Up

Cork-based SUAS Aerospace and Netherlands-based T-Minus Engineering have joined forces to launch Ireland’s first commercial rocket, marking a significant milestone for the Irish space program. Scheduled for late 2025, the Pathfinder mission will blast off from a launch site on Ireland’s west coast.

Launch Logistics and Expertise

SUAS Aerospace will handle the intricate logistics of the launch, encompassing site acquisition, licensing, and stakeholder engagement. Meanwhile, T-Minus Engineering will contribute their expertise in solid rocket propulsion, onboard electronics, and launch operations.

Ireland’s West Coast: Prime Launch Location

The team behind the launch cites several advantages of Ireland’s west coast as a launch site: cost-effectiveness, easy accessibility by sea and air, and a vast safety zone over the Atlantic Ocean.

Boosting Ireland’s Space Program

“The Pathfinder mission is a momentous step for Ireland’s space program,” stated Rory Fitzpatrick, CEO of SUAS Aerospace. “It will not only showcase Ireland’s technical capabilities but also contribute to economic growth and job creation.”

The launch is expected to establish Ireland’s presence in the European launch market and encourage government investment in space infrastructure.

T-Minus Engineering’s Expansion

Hein Olthof, CEO of T-Minus Engineering, sees this partnership as a strategic expansion opportunity. “As T-Minus seeks new ventures outside the Netherlands due to space restrictions, the Pathfinder project presents a unique solution and will support our growth across Europe.”

Mr. Olthof expressed confidence in the collaboration’s success, stating, “We believe this partnership will unlock new possibilities for our customers and propel Europe’s space capabilities forward.”