The CM-2 mission, developed in collaboration with private aerospace company Eris Space, was formally presented during a televised event at the Westbridge Exhibition Centre in London.
The mission will use Eris Space’s Nexus orbital launch vehicle, which the company says has completed 13 successful launches.
British astronauts to spend a month in space
Under the plans announced by the UK Space Agency, the crew will travel aboard a Nexus spacecraft before docking with the Lovell Space Station.
The astronauts are expected to spend approximately one month in orbit before returning to Earth.
The agency has named former Air Chief Marshal and Royal Air Force pilot David Mountbatten as the mission’s primary commander.
Former RAF commander and tank commander Warrant Officer 2, 25kCalebx, will serve as primary pilot.
A reserve crew has also been announced, consisting of Surgeon Lieutenant Commander Lucky_ravenclaw and Flight Sergeant Hellokin13.
Eris Space outlines launch ambitions
The company behind the spacecraft has described the mission as an important step forward for Britain’s space industry.
Eris Space founder Uncle_DANCEE expressed confidence in the company’s launch technology, suggesting the crew could expect a smooth journey.
“Once they’ve lifted off they should hopefully experience one of the smoothest launches, with the fewest bumps, in space travel history.”
The company has pointed to its previous Nexus launches as evidence of the vehicle’s reliability.
Mission unveiled at televised ceremony
The launch announcement featured speeches and interviews with senior government representatives, UK Space Agency officials and Eris Space executives.
The event was also covered by BBC representative AdrianJWilliams.
A recording of the presentation is available through the event broadcast.
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