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Isar Aerospace reaches orbit
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
Isar Aerospace's Spectrum rocket reached orbit from Andøya, Norway, on Sept 5, deploying five small satellites.
This first commercial orbital launch from continental Europe boosts European space independence.
Background
Isar Aerospace, a German startup, aims to provide commercial launch services from Europe. Its first launch attempt in March 2025 failed shortly after liftoff. This successful second flight marks a milestone for the European space industry, which has relied on other nations for commercial launches.
How it unfolded
- Mar 30, 2025First Spectrum launch attempt from Andøya failed about 30 seconds in, crashing into the sea.
- 2026Multiple launch attempts were scrubbed due to weather, technical issues, and a rogue boat in the range.
- Sep 5, 2026Spectrum launched at 22:12 CEST from Andøya, reached orbit in about four minutes, and deployed five small satellites.
Who’s saying what
- Company
- Isar Aerospace declared 'We're in orbit! And just made European history.'
- ESA
- ESA's Director of Space Transportation called it 'historic' and a milestone for the European Launcher Challenge.
- Official
- Norway's Trade Minister Cecilie Myrseth said the launch strengthens 'Norwegian and European security.'