A German start-up hoped to conduct a test flight of its Spectrum rocket yesterday from Norway’s Andoya Spaceport, a first for Europe which is keen to maintain its access to space.
The launch from the Arctic space centre was to be the first flight of an orbital launch vehicle from the European continent, excluding Russia.
Measuring 28m high and 2m in diametre, with a payload capacity of one ton, the Spectrum will not carry any cargo on this launch and is not expected to reach orbit.
“Every second we fly is good, because we collect data and experience. Thirty seconds would already be a great success,” explained Daniel Metzler, co-founder and chief executive of Isar Aerospace that built the rocket.
“We do not expect to reach orbit with this test.…
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Cape Argus (Digital) - 1 Issue, 2025-03-25