Summary:
Isar Aerospace scrubs first test flight of the Spectrum rocket due to unfavorable winds.
The 28-meter rocket is designed for small and medium-sized satellites.
A 30-second flight would be considered a success for data collection.
The company plans to produce 40 launch vehicles per year in the future.
Isar Aerospace operates independently from the ESA.
Launch Attempt Scrubbed
OSLO, Norway (AP) — Isar Aerospace, a private European aerospace company, has scrubbed its first test flight of the Spectrum rocket due to unfavorable winds. The launch, scheduled from the island of Andøya in northern Norway, faced weather challenges that prevented the lift-off.
Future Launch Plans
The company stated that they could attempt the test flight later this week, although a new date has not been set yet. The Spectrum rocket, measuring 28 meters (91 feet), is a two-stage launch vehicle designed to deploy small and medium-sized satellites into orbit.
Test Flight Expectations
While Isar Aerospace has expressed that reaching orbit on this first complete flight is unlikely, they consider a 30-second flight a success. The goal is to gather as much data and experience as possible during this initial integrated test of their in-house-developed launch vehicle systems.
Company Growth Aspirations
Having raised over 400 million euros ($435 million) in capital, Isar Aerospace intends to ramp up production to 40 launch vehicles per year at a planned facility near Munich. These vehicles are dedicated to placing satellites into orbit, marking a significant step in the European aerospace sector.
Distinction from ESA
It's important to note that Isar Aerospace operates independently from the European Space Agency (ESA), which is funded by 23 member states and has been launching rockets and satellites primarily from locations like French Guiana and Cape Canaveral, Florida.
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