Astra is a new commercial rocket company with quite a pedigreeof formerNASAandSpaceXpros behind it.
On Thursday, Astra attempted its first operational satellite launch, but it didn’t quite go as planned.
The payload wasn’t successfully deployed into orbit.
NASA had four CubeSats – small research satellites – on board.NASASpaceflight carried a live feedof the event.
The video appeared to show the vehicle spinning or tumbling several minutes after launch.
“We are deeply sorry to our customers NASA and the small satellite teams.
More information will be provided after we complete a data review.”
More information will be provided after we complete a data review.
Astra’s aim is to offer affordable launch services for small satellites and payloads.
“The Astra team demonstrated dedication to supporting NASA’s mission.
The lessons learned will benefit them and the agency going forward.”
Astra and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) will investigate the in-flight anomaly.
The path to orbit is paved with missions that didn’t make it.
