Astra Space, Inc. (“Astra”) (Nasdaq: ASTR) has conducted a test launch of their launch vehicle, LV0006.
The launch vehicle lifted off at 3:35PM PT on Saturday, August 28, 2021. One of the five main engines shut down less than one second after liftoff, causing the vehicle to slowly lift off the pad before resuming its trajectory.
After approximately two minutes and thirty seconds of flight, the range issued an all engine-shutdown command, ending the flight. The vehicle achieved an altitude of approximately 50 kilometers, before safely returning to Earth.
“We regret that we were unable to accomplish all mission objectives for the U.S. Space Force; however, we captured a tremendous amount of data from this test flight,” said Chris Kemp, Founder, Chairman and CEO of Astra. “We will incorporate learnings from this test into future launch vehicles, including LV0007, which is currently in production.”
Astra has opened a mishap investigation and is working closely with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
About the company
Astra states that the firm’s mission is to improve life on Earth from space by creating a healthier and more connected planet. Astra’s first flight to space was within four years of its inception, making it the fastest company to reach space.