Founded in 2018 by university students, Isar Aerospace successfully sent a privately developed rocket into low-Earth orbit on Saturday. The launch took place from Andøya Spaceport in northern Norway, situated within the Arctic Circle, marking a significant moment for the region’s space industry.
The two-stage vehicle, designated Spectrum, is recognized as Europe’s first fully commercial orbital launch system to reach orbit. This achievement positions Isar as a frontrunner among several European startups seeking to inject competition into a historically stagnant launch market.
The 28-meter (92-foot) rocket lifted off at 4:12 pm EST (20:12 UTC). At the time of launch, it was 10:12 pm local time, with the late summer sky transitioning from daylight. Approximately seven minutes after liftoff, the spacecraft achieved its target orbit.
Does this mean European satellite costs will finally drop? I’m skeptical, but hopeful for real competition.
So proud of our German startup success! Andøya Spaceport deserves more recognition for this milestone.
Finally, Europe has its own commercially viable orbital launch capability. This changes everything for the industry.