Countdown Begins: Bavarian Start-Up Set to Launch First Rocket

The countdown is officially underway for the test flight of the Spectrum rocket, developed by the Bavarian start-up Isar Aerospace. The company has announced that the launch is scheduled to take place within the window of 12:30 to 15:30, provided that no unforeseen circumstances arise.

However, the launch remains tentative, as delays or cancellations are not uncommon due to various factors such as safety concerns or adverse weather conditions. The primary objective of this test flight is to gather extensive data and experience. Achieving orbit with this initial attempt is considered highly unlikely, as no company has successfully placed its first rocket into orbit thus far. A spokesperson from Isar Aerospace indicated that the rocket could very well explode during the test, which is a possibility that the company is prepared for, stating that even 30 seconds of flight would be regarded as a significant achievement.

Looking ahead, Isar Aerospace is already in the process of producing additional rockets, with the second and third models currently under construction. The speed at which these rockets can be deployed on the launch pad will depend on the outcomes of the first test flight and whether any adjustments to software or hardware are necessary. The company's ambition remains to return to the launch site as swiftly as possible.

The Spectrum rocket measures 28 meters in length and has a diameter of 2 meters. Depending on the targeted orbit, it is capable of carrying a commercial payload ranging from 700 to 1,000 kilograms. Plans for the second flight include utilizing the rocket for satellite deployment.

This test launch, to be conducted from Norway, marks a dual milestone: it will not only represent Isar Aerospace's inaugural flight, but also the first launch of an orbital launch vehicle from continental Europe.

Isar Aerospace specializes in developing launch vehicles for transporting satellites into Earth's orbit. Interestingly, last year, India surpassed Europe in the number of rockets launched, a situation attributed to prolonged delays in the development of the Ariane 6 rocket. The future vision for Isar Aerospace is ambitious, with plans to manufacture as many as 40 launch vehicles annually. To date, the start-up has secured over 400 million euros in funding, including a recent investment from the NATO Innovation Fund, a venture capital initiative supported by 24 NATO member states.