Isar Aerospace's Next Spectrum Rocket Launch Aims for Orbit After First Launch Setback
Isar Aerospace's first Spectrum rocket launch on March 30, 2023, ended in failure due to a loss of attitude control and an open vent valve. Despite this, the company considers the launch successful for testing vehicle systems and team professionalism. Isar now plans a second launch, aiming to reach orbit and qualify the vehicle for operations.
The loss of attitude control during the first launch was traced back to improper characterization of the vehicle's bending modes at liftoff. Isar is addressing this issue for the second launch, which is expected to carry several cubesats for the European Space Agency's 'Boost!' program. The company aims to increase its launch cadence, targeting six to eight launches in 2028, driven by strong demand from European programs.
Isar has long-term plans to produce 30 to 40 vehicles a year, using launch sites in Norway and French Guiana. The company's in-house developed flight termination system was successfully demonstrated to be safe and effective during the first launch. Despite the vehicle going outside the safety zone, triggering the flight termination system and causing it to crash into the ocean, Isar remains committed to its launch plans. The second stage launch in Norway is not yet scheduled for this year or early next year.
Isar Aerospace's second Spectrum rocket launch aims to reach orbit and qualify the vehicle for operations. The company is working towards increasing its launch cadence and expanding production, with long-term plans for multiple launch sites. Despite the setback in the first launch, Isar remains dedicated to its mission and has demonstrated the safety and effectiveness of its flight termination system.
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