New MachLab rocket test facility opens in Scotland to support UK launch ambitions

The University of Glasgow-led project will test rocket engines and train future engineers as part of the UK’s growing space sector.

Photo credit: University of Glasgow

A new rocket test and teaching facility has opened at the former RAF Machrihanish airbase near Campbeltown, Scotland. The site, known as MachLab, will support research, development, and training in rocket propulsion as the UK works to expand its vertical launch capability.

Reviving a Cold War site for space research

MachLab was established by the University of Glasgow in collaboration with aerospace R&D company Exotopic. The project received nearly £500,000 in funding, including matched contributions from the UK Space Agency. Housed in a fortified Cold War-era building, the facility enables researchers to test experimental rocket engines capable of delivering up to one tonne of thrust.

The lab includes a custom-built test stand, allowing engines to be fired safely while stationary. It is equipped with specialist data-collection systems to measure temperature, chamber pressure, fuel consumption, and other performance metrics.

Professor Patrick Harkness of the University of Glasgow’s James Watt School of Engineering says MachLab aligns with the UK’s ambition to return to vertical launch.

“MachLab is ready to play a key role in the UK’s strategy to return to vertical launch, ensuring that students and researchers can access hotfire facilities in a safe and controlled environment,” Harkness says. “MachLab will allow us to co-operate with other countries establishing or re-establishing their access to space. We have already had visitors from South Africa, and we expect to welcome partners from Australia in the near future. The UK is returning to vertical launch, and will be going to the stars. We are building that future here, today.”

Training the next generation of rocket engineers

MachLab will also host the Rocketry Research Teaching Training (R2T2) program, bringing students from across the UK to gain hands-on experience in propulsion testing and design. The program is led by the University of Glasgow and funded by the UK Space Agency.

Jack Davies, a PhD student who helped build MachLab, says the project will accelerate student research. “Being part of the team to make this facility come to fruition has been a great experience and it will enable research for spaceflight and planetary landing,” Davies says.

The facility has already completed its first test-fire of 3D-printed rocket engines with advanced regenerative cooling channels. These engines, named TORC-1, -2, and -3, were designed using topology optimization to improve efficiency and reduce weight. They were developed with support from design software company ToffeeX and additive manufacturing firm Aconity3D GmbH.

Building an ecosystem for UK launch capability

Dr. Krzysztof Bzdyk, who co-led the facility’s development, says the lab took two years to complete. “MachLab has been two years in the making, with all the systems required to operate a liquid bipropellant rocket engine being created from the ground up. We’re excited to be ready to start making our mark in rocket research, development and teaching in Scotland,” Bzdyk says.

Andy Grey, CEO of Exotopic, says the site is a key addition to the company’s aerospace R&D offering. “This has been a fantastic opportunity to partner with some of the UK’s leading researchers at the University of Glasgow to develop a world-class facility that provides a key capability within our unique aerospace R&D offering at Machrihanish airbase. We are looking forward to welcoming national and international researchers from academia and industry to our site, growing this R&D service, and creating more jobs and opportunities in the area,” Grey says.

Matt Archer, director of launch at the UK Space Agency, says the facility strengthens the UK’s space ambitions. “Facilities like MachLab strengthen our launch ecosystem, helping build the skills, infrastructure and innovation needed for a resilient UK launch capability. By supporting rocket engine testing and inspiring future engineers, it lays the groundwork for the UK to lead in launch. The UK Space Agency is proud to have supported MachLab’s development as part of our broader commitment to growing the UK’s launch sector,” Archer says.