A SCOTTISH rocket and small satellite launch company is hoping to take off in Rosyth.

Skyrora Ltd have had their application to test a rocket engine at Rosyth Dockyard approved by Fife Council this month.

And the Edinburgh-based launch vehicle firm is also assessing Fife as an option for a technology centre.

A spokesperson said: "At Skyrora, we work very hard to bring Edinburgh to the forefront of the emerging space sector, which will create more jobs in Scotland.

"We are looking to expand our engineering capabilities with a new site for a technology centre around the Edinburgh region.

"We are considering many options and are looking for locations that can serve our needs, which will provide us with access to skills.

"The Fife site is one of these options.

"We are in the early stages and discussions are ongoing with landowners regarding all potential options."

Last week, the council granted their planning application which will see temporary rocket engine testing conducted at an enclosed area within the dockyard, by the waterfront, owned by Babcock International.

A noise assessment accompanying the application revealed that each Skyrora engine test will last from 30 to 180 seconds, with tests limited to three per month.

Both Kerosene (400kg) and Hydrogen Peroxide (2000kg) will be stored for up to five days at the site for use in tests.

Tanks will be stored in pre-fabricated bunds to catch any spillage.

Skyrora was responsible for the first commercial rocket test launch from the UK, at Kildermorie Estate in Ross-shire, in August last year.

They followed that with a second launch in July this year at the same location.