Astra Launch Update: Targeting December for Next Orbital Attempt

Astra is preparing for the upcoming launch of its next orbital rocket. The launch window begins on December 7th and extends for twelve days, concluding on December 18th. Potential launch times are scheduled between 11:00 AM and 2:30 PM Pacific Time each day, contingent upon favorable weather and ground conditions. This mission will utilize the Rocket 3.2, a refined and enhanced iteration of the Rocket 3.1 vehicle flown in September.

Astra, headquartered in Alameda, is a developing company concentrating on the production of a small launch vehicle that is comparatively inexpensive to manufacture. This vehicle is designed to deliver small payloads to space quickly and offers adaptability in launch locations. Founded by Chris Kemp, formerly the Chief Technology Officer at NASA, the company has received investment from sources including Mac Benioff, Innovation Endeavors, Airbus Ventures, Canaan Partners, and others. Astra currently operates a functioning rocket assembly facility in the East Bay area.

Initially, the company was established to compete in DARPA’s Launch Challenge, although the deadline for that competition has passed. Astra continues to pursue the core objectives of that challenge by developing a launch system capable of being deployed rapidly as needed by customers, including the U.S. Department of Defense, who require flexible and readily available spaceflight options.

The objective of this forthcoming flight mirrors that of the September Rocket 3.1 mission: to analyze the rocket’s performance and enhance its overall efficiency while improving its capabilities. Achieving orbit is not the primary focus at this stage, but remains a desirable secondary outcome of this launch, which will originate from Kodiak, Alaska. Valuable insights were gained from the initial launch, informing the modifications and upgrades implemented in Rocket 3.2. The company has planned a three-flight series for initial orbital launch testing, with Rocket 3.3 scheduled to fly after this mission, integrating further lessons learned.