On the Beeb News site.
article intro:-
RAF pilot Matthew Stannard will be in the cockpit of a jumbo jet on Thursday when it launches a rocket to space from out over the Pacific Ocean.
The aviator is currently seconded to Sir Richard Branson's satellite launch company, Virgin Orbit, which will be attempting to loft seven spacecraft.
"Stanny", as he's known, is more accustomed to firing missiles from Tornado and Typhoon fighter jets.
Unleashing a 21m (70ft) space booster will be a new experience.
"Stanny has been a wonderful addition to our team. As you'd expect given his background with the RAF, he brings a bright intellect, incredible attention to detail, and an excellent experience base, in addition to his world-class piloting skills," said Virgin Orbit chief operating officer Tony Gingiss.
"Stanny's been deeply involved in all of our planning, and after flying on our previous mission and logging many hours in the simulator, he will be in the right seat for our upcoming 'Above the Clouds' flight, releasing our LauncherOne rocket at the right time, sending our customers' satellites on their way to orbit," the executive told BBC News.
The UK Ministry of Defence anticipates using Virgin Orbit to launch military satellites in the future, and is building a pool of experience in advance of this happening.
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