[Sweden]: Message to the UK Space Agency

[Connor]

Government of Sweden
Löfven Administration​

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To whom it may concern,

I write to you today in the hope to start a new chapter not only for the progression of missions towards our stars, promotion of research and education but also with the view to promote better international cooperation in a common goal; successful, safe and sustainable space operations for future generations to marvel. In Sweden we presently have no government-funded towards this goal, something we very much intend to change in the coming years; and hopefully hand-in-hand with the UK Space Agency.

Whilst LFT-01 met an unfortunate demise I was personally enthralled to follow your pursuit of science and I do hope that the unfortunate failures that wormed their way to the eyes of the public has only encouraged you and your teams to continue their work... their passion. This is work that we hope we can play a role in. Space research is probably one of the most expensive areas of science seen by our generation thus I am sure without investors that the UK Space Agency will soon find itself discouraged to continue the progression of risky launches with uncertain results.

I would like to propose that we meet in person to discuss potential cooperation between my department and the UK Space Agency which could see billions of dollars in investment towards the progression of your operations. I would greatly appreciate the opportunity to pitch my ideas to you - I look forward to hearing from you soon.

...and in the meantime, I watch in anticipation as LFT-02 dons the merits achieved by LFT-01.

Regards,
Ibrahim Baylan
Secretary of Education
Department of Education
Kingdom of Sweden

Jamie

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CONFIDENTIAL
Crown Copyright © Kingdom of Sweden
All information is subject to the Swedish Document Classification and Security Act 1995​

 

[Jamie]

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UK Space Agency
Security Classification: TOP SECRET

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Recipient Secretary of Education, Ibrahim Baylan Connor
Subject RE: Cooperation

Good Afternoon,

I would like to begin by thanking you for your kind words of encouragement, the goals and values of the UK Space Agency are something we stand with as we strive to push the boundaries. The result of LFT-01 was unfortunate, but it was expected due to the purpose of the mission. Despite delays, I am happy to inform you that a launch of LFT-02 is due to take place by the end of November. Whilst, from a public perception, we anticipate what some would consider a failed launch, the goal from LFT program is to collect data for what will lead to our first, satellite-launching mission. In light of your invitation, and to give you a front row seat, I would like to invite you to our control center in Scotland at the end of November (08/01) for a multi-day visit.

To cover an agenda, the day you arrive will include a tour of the facility, followed by the launch of LFT-02. Subjective to weather conditions and any technical delays.
Day two will be the opportunity for us to discuss potential cooperation going forward. Accommodation and transport will be provided by ourselves and you are more than welcome to bring up to 4 other guests, these can be representatives of your government or your immediate family for we will ensure the visit will be suitable for all visiting.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Kind Regards,
Alan Harman,
UKSA Director

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[Connor]

Government of Sweden
Löfven Administration​

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Dear Alan Harman,

Thank you for your prompt response. The goals and objectives of UK Space Agency in conjunction with the launch of LFT-01 and soon-to-be LFT-02 is certainly of huge historical significance; with your agency, scientists and researchers at the very forefront of technology as we know it. Of course I accept your offer with open arms, it would be a great honour to witness the launch of LFT-02 and as you say this will set the perfect environment for an extensive conversation in relation to the onwards cooperation between Sweden and the UK Space Agency.

We are in the process of setting up the Swedish National Space Agency, not to develop our own space program, but to distribute government grants to research and development, initiate research and development in space and remote sensing, and act as the Swedish contact in international cooperative efforts. As a result the soon-to-be appointed General-Director, Anna Rathsman, will be a key link for cooperation between us in the future.

Anna and I will be joined by our spouses for the two day affair. I very much look forward to meeting you and your team!

Regards,
Ibrahim Baylan
Secretary of Education
Department of Education
Kingdom of Sweden

Jamie

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CONFIDENTIAL
Crown Copyright © Kingdom of Sweden
All information is subject to the Swedish Document Classification and Security Act 1995​

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Following the sending of the correspondence the delegation would make their way to the airport for a chartered flight to the United Kingdom. Naturally, with the Secretary of Education hardly being one of the most publicised roles, the airliner would be packed with regular civilians albeit the four of them would be seated in the first class cabin. They would travel with basic necessities for their two day stay, as well as the necessary paperwork the meetings that are due to take place to discuss the future cooperation between the UKSA and SNSA. Once ready and safe to depart, the aircraft would roar down the runway and into the skies.

 

[Jamie]

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The invitation extended to the Swedish education minister was one of rare occasion, but one that was hoped to see further funding from the British Government if their activities and partnership with Sweden would benefit both governments which had, over recent years, engaged in a closer bond. Providing the airliner abode local air traffic control regulations, it would be directed to the nearest international airport to the facilities of the United Kingdom Space Agency. Upon their arrival, they would be greeted by a man in a formal attire, but with what looks to be the UKSA logo embraided on the shirt.

"Good Morning, it's a pleasure to meet you. I'm Mark with the U-K-S-A. If you'd like to follow me, we'll get you to your accommodation to get settled before heading out."

During transit through the airport, Mark was rather friendly. Engaging in idle chat and generally representing the space agency that they had come specifically to witness. It wasn't long from boarding the waiting SUVs until the Swedish were outside their hotel and introduced to their rooms - paid for by the British. The initial part was quite fast paced, only having around 15 minutes to settle before trying to be scooped up into the next vehicle and taken to the launch facility for a tour.

An agenda was provided to the delegation, identifying day 1 as a tour and sit down with some of the experts that worked within the organisation. Day 2, the more exciting of the days. Launch of LFT-02 where they would be granted behind the scenes access from the control room. It was around a 45-minute trip from their hotel until they arrived at the security checkpoint, ID would be checked and a general search of everyone attempting to enter. Lockers were provided for any cameras, phones and other devices that were not permitted in the factory due to national security.

Following the locking up of valuables and any media equipment, Mark, who remained their guide for the trip could begin the tour. The first part of the building was a reception area, large-scale rocket models across the ceiling with the UKSA logo tinted on the white-tiled floor. In general, it was very clean and mostly consisted of white floors and walls. Introductions took place between pretty much any member of staff that the tour group came across which became exceedingly more valuable as they entered the main factory floor. It was equivalent of a huge warehouse with what could only be compared to a production line as 14 of the Black Arrow Orbital Launch Vehicles were scatted around with individual teams working on each one.

Engineers, Scientists along other highly-graded professions roamed the corridors and the Swedish guests were given the opportunity to see the huge launch vehicles up close. "All of these are part of the LFT program. We have another one on the launch pad which is for tomorrow. The other fourteen are sat here going through checks or other work, ready for their launches. A big aspect which I need to stress is that these launches aren't looking to make it to the moon, or even orbit. Each launch these carry out will be to collect data that can be used for the next launch program. The government expediated our efforts with funding sixteen launches and depending on how these work, will determine the next steps." Mark spoke as they had approached the first rocket.

Food and drinks were provided at intervals of the tour with a proper sit down meal for lunch. The table was against the window on one of the upper levels of the building that had the launch pad in the background. LFT-02 sat patiently on the deck ready for the next day. Naturally, they were given plenty of opportunities to ask questions to the members of staff, or Mark himself. After all, the day was dedicated to a possible partnership with SNSA.

Connor

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[Connor]

The aircraft would fly, as instructed, via the necessary flight paths to land at the airport in England safely. With this aircraft being a chartered flight they would disembark alongside a number of other civilians before making their way to the arrivals lounge, through the necessary security checks and into the foyer to meet their greeter. Alongside the Secretary of Education whom arrived dressed in a shirt and tie, black slacks and shoes, he would introduce the Director General of the Swedish National Space Agency whom arrived dressed in an almost lesbian-esc patterned blazer with matching trousers and some offensively tall high heels. Both officials came with the heterosexual spouses.

Secretary Baylan would take the lead "Thank you very much for having us, a pleasure to meet you Mark"

After dumping their luggage in the hotel rooms they'd take the opportunity to snap a few photographs from their window before freshening up in the bathrooms. Although the flight from Sweden to England was not one of much length in time, being congested in an air conditioned tube with hundreds of other people was enough for anyone to feel as though they needed a wash afterwards. But, once clean and fresh, they'd make their way to their awaiting cars to be conveyed onwards to tour the UKSA facilities. Naturally all those present would have their passports as identification and would surrender any prohibited items in the lockers provided before following Mark. As he spoke General Director Rathsman would ask questions...

"How long has it taken the UKSA to develop this current stage of launch vehicle? and how long do you foresee this framework to last in keeping with technology advancing? is it in keeping with a sustainable launch program financially?"

Jamie

 

[Jamie]

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Marks eyes set on the Director General as she approached him prior to their introduction. His train of thought of her outfit narrowing down 'What a milf', adjusting himself to be presented as professional. "In theory, a few years. We had quite an opening balance from the government that gave us the ability to build the facility and the rockets in line with one another. In a few years we were able to deliver the facility which you'll see today and a combined total of sixteen rockets ready to launch. We're certainly not rushing into making mistakes but we have a sufficient amount to really make some breakthroughs with each attempted launch.

The framework we have set out would see this as viable for a further five years but our goal is to have the LFT program concluded by 2003. Our prediction is that because of the range of testing and effort needed to set up such a mission, we will see an increase of ventures by 2005 which is when there will be a technological threat. I do need to add that this would likely only take place the moment other parties see the success we would be having with our launches.

We've found that no other country has any interest in embarking into the space industry unless someone else decides first. That isn't all. This is just the benchmark for our launching capabilities and from this specific site. New Programs are in discussion that would see the launching of satellites into orbit using the same rocket we are launching right now in the next two years.

Financially, the government covered the major cost. They provided us with the funding to build all sixteen rockets and the facility which is state of the art. We're financially stable at the moment but that is partially down to the reduction of launches taking place. We're hoping to increase that in the next 12 months and have a further 4 test flights. It's the launches which cost, unfortunately."
Connor

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[Connor]

Whilst Mark spoke the General Director would nod, making mental notes as she went along and keen to see where she could incorporate the SNSA into the ongoing and clearly extremely progressive research conducted by the UKSA. Whilst he spoke she would often look to the Secretary of Education, impressed with what she were hearing.

"From what you're saying I presume you've had no outreach from foreign governments expressing interest in your programs? Thus far is your funding stream exclusively from central government or have you had any support externally, whether government or civilian?

In honesty I can't say that the interests of the Swedish National Space Agency is necessarily to see man on the moon, or even to see a progressive development of programs to support such a project in the early stages. Whilst this would be an incredible feat, I believe there's a hell of a lot of possibility closer to home before we get too invested in distant planets and rocks. We're much more interested in near-earth orbital satellites and how these could benefit us from an educational research standpoint."

Before the General Director stole the show the Secretary would interject:

"In that breath I'd also like to ask whether the launch vehicles you're producing here are exclusively British or whether there's any risk to your supply change from changing political dynamics abroad?"

Jamie

 

[Jamie]

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"Funding has been predominantly from the central government but we have a valued interest in our operations from Sparrow Industries. I believe there are discussions, somewhat above my pay grade, about working closer with them. This ties into the question about our supply. At present, the rocket, named the Black Arrow Orbital Launch Vehicle, is British through and through. It's our benchmark for our capabilities but we are hoping our work with Sparrow, due to their ties with Lockheed, would see us acquire other vessels that we can use. At the same time, we are wanting to venture into more home-made technology.

If I was to summarize the goals for the UKSA, it would be to conduct the Launch Fundamentals Testing and the priority for lets say, the next five to 10 years would be the launch capability of satellites into orbit. Nationally and Commercially. Commercial aspects would help fund us further then what the government already provides and currently, apart from yourselves, we've had literally interest from the political arena."

Connor

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[Connor]

"I am encouraged by the interest from Sparrow Industries as encapsulating the technological and manufacturing capabilities of their conglomerate will make significant strives towards completing organisational goals within approved timeframes. I have to say I am surprised more money hasn't been thrown at you from foreign investors seeking to complete their own ambitions; I have to be honest in saying that the Swedish National Space Agency has a fresh budget from central government which will undoubtedly come under scrutiny in years to come, as all new projects do, but we're keen to make the most of the funding whilst it's available to us... fundamentally this budget is for investment abroad as we have no current plans to develop our own domestic program.

Where this money can be invested is key however, and leads me onto my next question - does the UK Space Agency currently offer any apprenticeship programs for specialist occupations? and if so, to what extent?"

Jamie

 

[Jamie]

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"I have no doubt that as a result of UKSA activities, whether now or in the future, that countries will be seeking to create their own. Especially once they see the benefits we are able to gather from activities in space through satellites and other technologies. It is also an expensive business in itself, billions has been spent to get us to the place we're at now. It's an easy topic to want to do, but financially, it's a burden. We do currently hire apprentices on board for many of our occupations, and yes, including those more specialised.

It's good to hear your government has offered fresh budgets but like you said, the scrutiny is what hits later on down the road. Especially when your average voter doesn't see the work taking place. Whilst your government has provided a budget, what is your governments stance on venturing into Space? I know they opted quite hard for missions in Antarctica, could you see their goal becoming more space orientated in terms of science?"

Connor

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[Connor]

"I see, well that's certainly interesting, does your apprenticeship program currently involve any form of foreign exchange program?

The current administration in Stockholm have always had a particular vested interest in research, information and data collation which as you quite rightly pointed our has lead to a substantial focus on our activity in Antarctica, the Arctic Circle and even planned progressive multi-national research and development opportunities in Asia. I am keen to project the governments education-focus outside of our atmosphere and into space where I foresee real opportunities for technological advancement in a range of sectors. It's a hard sell. Especially with so much going on in the world at the moment. But interoperation with agencies such as yours will certainly reap the benefits.

Fundamentally, what is your primary obstacle at the moment where the UKSA is considering outsourcing for support?"

Jamie

 

[Jamie]

"At the moment, no. That isn't to say we're not open too it but aside from yourselves, we've had little traction from any other countries in general. Presently, all our apprentices and employees have lived in the United Kingdom for some time. Perhaps, a foreign exchange program may prove beneficial for Sweden if your government were interested?
For sure, the situation in Turkey and others around the world keeps our governments occupied. Truth be told, obstacle wise is just the time. It takes a long time to prepare and plan these missions is all. Our idea of outsourcing is for two main reasons. Space isn't limited to just the United Kingdom, there isn't much sense trying to go at it alone. Whilst it's true that competition breeds innovation - we're not aiming to be what NASA once was. We can work with others without it causing unnecessary tension that would benefit everyone. Therefore, outsourcing gives us new opportunities to work with others. The second reason is that outsourcing means we're not restricted ourselves. As mentioned, it takes time to do things but by working with others and outsourcing, it means we can focus on what our job is and that is to do the launches.

Space is certainly underutilized and aside from the UK, and by extension, Sweden, we're not aware of any other countries that have any interest in such research. More governments are fascinated in Antarctica since Sweden begun their operations, so I suspect when our space operations start proving a success, we'll have countries trying to outdo us."

The tour continued for the rest of the day and there were still plenty of chances for questions. Food was provided and the guests were taken to their hotel once ready. The next morning, they were brought back to the launch complex for 7am, sharp.

"Launch day" greeted their tour guide as he escorted them to the mission control room. Huge televisions with the rocket on the pad was visible, throughout the launch the Swedish could ask any questions but in general, it was their chance to see the launch which had begun its Sequence.

Connor

 

[Connor]

"I would be keen to negotiate a foreign exchange program to see further cooperation between our two agencies directly, the involvement of external agencies from around the world is likely to start following a successful establishment between ourselves which could well see to further investment. From today I certainly see an opportunity for rapid investment from the Department of Education into a program of cooperative sponsorship between the UKSA and SNSA; fundamentally we would like to see any investment go towards the development of further launches of your current line of spacecraft with the view to eventually reach a sustainable and reliable framework for space works. There are a number of plans Stockholm have darted towards me but it is clear we're not quite at the stage for out-of-the-box ideas when the UKSA is still in the early stages of testing."

The next morning the delegation would again meet the tour guide, walking to the mission control room with great anticipation. The launch of LFT-02 was not only one of intrigue for the Swedish visitors but also somewhat a firework to future cooperation between the two nations, with many launches to come.

Despite the unsuccessful launch the Secretary would be sure to shake hands with those within the control room, once appropriate to do so, and exchange words and discussion on their specific job roles, how they enjoyed the ongoing research and what aspirations they had in themselves. This was bringing the meeting to a close with the end of the agenda provided by the UKSA albeit an incredibly insightful and exciting agenda to be apart of.

Jamie

 

[Jamie]

"We would be grateful for any form of exchange program and are eager to see development between the UKSA and Sweden in terms of space operations. We are certainly not in any rush to blow rockets up any time soon but are using each launch to gather the data ready for a next one. I would ideally like to see the prospect of an exchange program in place following the end of our initial testing; which would mark the beginning of actual flight operations". Following the rest of the tour and availability for both teams to spend time together, it was considered a successful visit with the possibilities of many more to come.

Connor