The third attempt to launch the Spectrum 2 carrier rocket from Andøya yesterday evening was canceled because Isar Aerospace called it off one hour before launch. The reason for the cancellation was a possible leak from a pressure tank holding helium gas. It is currently uncertain when the next attempt will be.
The planned launch of the Spectrum carrier rocket from Andøya Spaceport on Monday evening was postponed due to strong wind. This is the second time this year a planned launch has been postponed; in January, it was due to technical problems with a pressure valve. The mission, named 'Onward and Upward', has been rescheduled to Wednesday, March 25, between 9 PM and 10 PM.
If Wednesday's attempt also fails, a new window is available between April 8 and 19. The previous attempt from Andøya last year ended with the rocket falling into the sea after a few seconds. The launch in March last year is considered successful even though the rocket crashed after 30 seconds in the air.
Andøya has extensive experience with rocket activity, with over 1,200 rockets launched since 1962. For larger rockets and satellite launches, the requirements are stricter to ensure safety. West wind creates problems for launches at Andøya because a favorable wind direction is needed to ensure the rocket falls in a safe area if something goes wrong.
Adjustments have been made to the carrier rocket for the new launch. If successful, this could be the first time a carrier rocket for satellites is launched from mainland Europe and succeeds. Andøya Space plans to launch the carrier rocket 'Spectrum' from Andøya Space, Børvågen, between March 19 and April 19.
The activity is divided into two possible periods: either between March 19 and 29 or between April 8 and 19. A launch window involves extensive notifications and coordination, including to local communities, aviation, fishing, local cabin owners, and neighboring countries like Russia. County Road 7698 may be closed between Nordmela and Nøss in connection with the activity between 4:00 PM and 12:00 AM local time.
A successful launch could give Europe a secure and predictable access to space.