Astra Plans First Commercial Orbital Launch

Astra's Upcoming Commercial Orbital Launch

Astra’s most recent test flight demonstrated promising results, coming close to orbital velocity – an ambitious objective for that particular mission. The company initially indicated that only software adjustments were necessary to attain orbit, and the opportunity to validate this assessment is now scheduled.

Astra has announced a launch window commencing on August 27th for its inaugural commercial orbital launch. This mission serves as a demonstration for the U.S. Space Force.

Space Force Contract Details

The agreement between Astra and the Space Force encompasses a second launch, planned for later in the year. The precise timing of this subsequent launch remains to be determined.

The payload for the Space Force mission will be a test spacecraft utilized by the agency’s Space Test Program. The launch will originate from Astra’s launch facility located in Kodiak, Alaska, the same site used for previous test flights.

Launch Window and Flexibility

Although the launch window officially begins at 1 p.m. PDT on August 27th, it extends through September 11th. Astra retains the flexibility to adjust the launch date within this timeframe, contingent upon prevailing weather conditions and other relevant considerations.

Astra's Business Model

Astra transitioned to a publicly traded company in early July via a SPAC merger. The company manufactures its own launch vehicles at its facility in Alameda, California.

Astra is focused on providing frequent, cost-effective launches for smaller payloads. This approach aims to offer greater flexibility compared to SpaceX and a competitive pricing advantage over Rocket Lab.