Britain launched its first satellite, Prospero, on a Black Arrow rocket in 1971

Summary

On Oct. 28, 1971, the United Kingdom launched its first satellite, Prospero, into space on a Black Arrow rocket, according to Space.com's 'On this day in space' feature marking the anniversary. The available summary says the launch mattered but does not give further details.

Timeline

1. Space.com

   28 Oct 2026, 23:02 UTCSource ↗

   Space.com reports that on Oct. 28, 1971, the United Kingdom launched its first satellite, Prospero, on a Black Arrow rocket, and says the launch mattered.