SPACEPORT OFFICIALS OFFER ISLANDERS COUNTER DEAL: “LOCAL RESIDENTS PASSES” WILL NOW ALLOW THEM TO ACCESS THE ROCKETS
After backlash over plans requiring nearby islanders to apply for passes just to access their own homes during rocket launches, spaceport officials have responded with what they are calling “a fair and exciting counter offer”.
Rather than simply granting residents access to their houses, the new Local Residents Rocket Pass will now allow Unst locals to access the actual rockets themselves.
Under the scheme, anyone living within the affected area will be eligible to board a launch, become an astronaut, and represent Shetland in space. Although officials have confirmed each rocket will operate on a strict first come, first served basis.
The first local resident expected to take up the offer is 88 year old Audrey MacAsteroyd, who has lived on the island her entire life and says she is “quite looking forward to seeing if the Co-op looks any smaller from orbit.”
Audrey, who only applied for the pass so she could get home from the shops during launch day, was reportedly “a bit surprised” to learn she had accidentally secured seat 1A on Scotland’s first community space mission.
“I thought they were asking for proof I lived here,” Audrey said. “Next thing I know, they’re measuring me for a helmet and asking if I’ve ever experienced zero gravity. I said no, but I have been on the ferry in February, so near enough.”
Spaceport officials have defended the offer, saying it gives residents “excellent value” from the pass system.
A spokesperson explained, “We understand some islanders were concerned about needing permission to access their homes. So we’ve listened carefully and decided to give them permission to access low Earth orbit instead.”
Residents have been advised to bring photo ID, proof of address, a packed lunch, and “anything they don’t mind floating away”.
Audrey is now expected to become the first pensioner from Unst to enter space
