commissioning research to gather evidence to develop and support our understanding of the environmental impact of spacecraft launch.

The Department for Transport (DfT) is interested in commissioning research to gather evidence to develop and support our understanding of the environmental impact of spacecraft launch. There is a gap in understanding of the impact of rocket launches on atmospheric composition and climate, both for current and new rocket fuels. We want to understand the chemistry, volumes of exhaust entering the atmosphere, especially stratosphere, from rocket launch activities, its dispersion and their contribution to climate change. This research will allow DfT to understand whether there is an atmospheric issue from the effects of spacecraft launches and the potential size of the problem.