Astra has suffered a string of unfortunate and spectacular failures:
First attempt failed after an automatic abort was triggered because the vehicle started to oscillate:
Astra Rocket 3.1 Destroyed After Losing Control
Second attempt failed because the fuel/oxidizer ratio on the second stage was off:
Third attempt failed due to an early loss of one of five engines:
Why This Rocket Went Sideways Off The Launch Pad
Fourth and last attempt failed for 2 reasons:
- faulty wiring of the fairing release system
- second stage control systems spun the vehicle out of control
Rocket Launch Doomed After Payload Fairing Won't Open
Astra conducted a very fast asessment and is ready to try again. Here is the statement of the company.
Main selling points for Astra are:
- rapidly launch
- from everywhere
- rocket, ground equidment and launch pad fit into two shipping cointainers
Astra is launching from Kodiak Island, Alaska. Launch customer is Spaceflight Inc. The rocket will deliver multiple payloads to sun synchronous orbit.
First attempt was scrubbed due to weather.
Where to watch:
- NASASpaceflight will be live streaming 45 minutes before launch: LIVE: Astra Launches Spaceflight Astra-1 Mission
Check your local time of launch at: www.timeanddate.com
Scott Manley: Why This Rocket Went Sideways Off The Launch Pad
Scott Manley: Astra's Secret Rocket Project Finally Reveals Itself
The Angry Astronaut: NEW CONTROVERSY!! Astra Space a pipedream? Or the next SpaceX?
Useful links to stay up to date on launches:
Spaceflightnow.com: Launch Schedule
Everyday Astronaut: Prelaunch Previews
Space News:
NASA Spaceflight nasaspacefight.com