Join the British Interplanetary Society for the launch of HOTOL & Skylon: The Story of Britain\u2019s Spaceplanes<\/strong>, the new book by journalist and writer Rob Coppinger.<\/p>\n The story of HOTOL and Skylon is one of a dream of aviation and spaceflight older than the Space Age itself. The case for a reusable launch vehicle\u2014capable of reaching space with aircraft-like operations\u2014has been clear since before Sputnik\u2019s launch in 1957.<\/p>\n The proponents of reusability, including the designers behind HOTOL and Skylon, have had to contend with the short-term thinking that has often shaped investment in reusable spaceplane development. Reaction Engines was founded to carry forward that ambition: to achieve aircraft-like operations and realise the designs envisioned by its engineers. Their story is a powerful example of British ingenuity, imagination and perseverance in the face of adversity.<\/p>\n About the Event<\/strong><\/p>\n At this special BIS event, Rob Coppinger will introduce his second book, explore the history and significance of Britain\u2019s spaceplane programmes, and discuss the people, ideas and technological ambitions behind HOTOL and Skylon. There will also be an opportunity to purchase the book and have copies signed by the author.<\/p>\n Join us in person at Arthur C. Clarke House or online for the launch of Rob Coppinger\u2019s HOTOL & Skylon: The Story of Britain\u2019s Spaceplanes<\/em>, celebrating the vision, ingenuity and perseverance behind Britain\u2019s enduring ambition for reusable spaceflight<\/p>\n About the Speaker<\/strong><\/p>\n Rob Coppinger is a journalist, editor of SpaceFlight<\/em> and a writer.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Speaker: <\/strong>Rob Coppinger<\/p>\n Date:<\/strong> Wednesday 9th December 2026 @ 19.00 GMT<\/p>\n Venue:<\/b> BIS Headquarters, 27\/29 South Lambeth Road, Vauxhall, London, SW8 1SZ, and Online on Zoom<\/p>\n – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –<\/p>\n Join us at the BIS for an interesting in-person lecture at our London HQ, with live online access available via Zoom for those attending remotely. Whether you join us in the room or from anywhere in the world, you will be part of a dynamic and engaging event.\u00a0 Kindly note that this event will be recorded and, by attending, you consent to being included in the recording.<\/p>\n Advance registration is required to attend. Tickets are limited, and events often fill quickly, so we encourage early booking to avoid disappointment.<\/p>\n Members and Fellows can claim their complimentary ticket by selecting \u201cBIS Member\/Fellow<\/strong>\u201d during booking, and completing the checkout process.<\/p>\n Once registered, you will receive a confirmation email with your ticket and full joining instructions, including your Zoom access link. A reminder will also be sent on the day of the event.<\/p>\n Explore this and other upcoming events on our website: Events<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\nHOTOL & Skylon: The Story of Britain\u2019s Spaceplanes<\/em> is published in association with the British Interplanetary Society.<\/span><\/h2>\n
BIS Evening Lecture<\/h4>\n
HOTOL & Skylon: The Story of Britain\u2019s Spaceplanes<\/h4>\n