Spaceport Sweden signs strategic partnering agreement with QinetiQ

Spaceport Sweden AB has signed a strategic partnering agreement with QinetiQ Ltd, to identify, explore and exploit opportunities in the fields of commercial human spaceflight (CHSF), research and exploitation.

Under the agreement, Spaceport Sweden and QinetiQ will initially use the Flight Physiological Centre (FPC) in Linköping, Sweden to develop a world-class preparation program for CHSF passengers.

“Spaceport Sweden is establishing commercial human spaceflights and Europe’s gateway to space and is proud to be partnering with QinetiQ to further our development and offering. Initially we will seek to develop and deliver a world-class spaceflight preparation program together, where future space travelers will emerge prepared, confident and relaxed, ready to maximise their journey to space”, says Karin Nilsdotter, CEO of Spaceport Sweden.

The FPC’s centrepiece is one of the world’s most advanced Dynamic Flight Simulators (DFS), combining a man-rated, long-arm centrifuge and flight simulator.   The DFS provides a safe and highly controllable environment in which CHSF passengers can experience the sustained periods of increased acceleration present during launch and re-entry and allows for the precise re-creation of the complex and unique ‘G’ profiles generated by future commercial space vehicles.

“QinetiQ seeks to capitalise on its extensive technical expertise and aerospace experience providing world-class services for the emerging commercial human spaceflight industry. Spaceport Sweden is a key partner for us and our agreement a perfect fit between two pioneering organisations,” says John Childs, Business Development of QinetiQ Ltd.

Renata Chlumska, the Swedish adventurer, a member of Spaceport Sweden’s advisory board, is booked on Virgin Galactic as Sweden’s first female space tourist and is looking forward to realising her dream of experiencing weightlessness and experience earth from a different perspective.