German company Isar Aerospace has launched Europe's first fully commercial orbital rocket. The two-stage Spectrum reached low Earth orbit from a spaceport in Norway.
It was the company's second attempt. In March, an earlier flight lasted just 30 seconds before the rocket crashed into the sea and exploded.
The success gives Europe more options to 'buy European' for space launches.
π The Backstory
Europe has long relied on government-backed rockets such as Ariane. Private companies are now racing to offer cheaper and faster launch services.
Isar Aerospace is one of several young European space firms. First flights often fail, so this success is a major milestone.
Small satellites for internet, weather and maps need frequent, low-cost launches. Commercial rockets aim to fill that gap.
π― Why It Matters
More launch options mean cheaper satellites, which power the apps, maps and communication tools used every day. A strong European space industry also creates jobs and independence.
German company Isar Aerospace has launched Europe's first fully commercial orbital rocket. The two-stage Spectrum reached low Earth orbit from a spaceport in Norway.
It was the company's second attempt. In March, an earlier flight lasted just 30 seconds before the rocket crashed into the sea and exploded.
The success gives Europe more options to 'buy European' for space launches.
Europe has long relied on government-backed rockets such as Ariane. Private companies are now racing to offer cheaper and faster launch services.
Isar Aerospace is one of several young European space firms. First flights often fail, so this success is a major milestone.
Small satellites for internet, weather and maps need frequent, low-cost launches. Commercial rockets aim to fill that gap.
More launch options mean cheaper satellites, which power the apps, maps and communication tools used every day. A strong European space industry also creates jobs and independence.