Isar Aerospace, a European startup, has canceled its attempt to launch the first test flight of its orbital rocket from Norway due to unfavorable winds. The Spectrum rocket, designed for small and medium-sized satellites, was meant to be launched from the island of Andøya in northern Norway.
However, Isar Aerospace has not ruled out rescheduling the launch for later this week. According to the company, favorable weather conditions are a key factor in ensuring a safe and successful flight. The startup aims to collect as much data and experience as possible on its first integrated test of all systems on the Spectrum rocket.
Isar Aerospace has received over 400 million euros in capital and plans to build up to 40 launch vehicles per year at a plant outside of Munich, which will be used for putting satellites into orbit. The company is separate from the European Space Agency (ESA), which launches rockets and satellites from French Guiana and Cape Canaveral.
The cancellation highlights the challenges faced by startups in the space industry, where weather conditions and safety are paramount. Isar Aerospace’s rescheduled launch attempt will be closely watched by the space community, with hopes that it will mark an important milestone for the company’s development of its orbital launch vehicle.
Source: https://www.wral.com/story/a-european-startup-is-set-to-launch-an-orbital-rocket-on-its-first-test-flight/21925834