Isar Aerospace is preparing to launch its Spectrum rocket from a base in Norway, which would make it the first orbital launch from continental Europe outside Russia
By Matthew Sparkes
21 March 2025
The Spectrum rocket on the launch pad at Andøya Space Center in Norway
Wingmen-Media
Preparations are under way for a rocket test flight in Norway that could make history and give Europe greater independence from the market leader in orbital launches, the United States.
Who is behind the rocket launch?
The company that developed the new rocket, dubbed Spectrum, is German-based Isar Aerospace. Spectrum is 28 metres tall, composed of two stages and uses oxygen and propane as propellant. Isar Aerospace says the aim of the test flight, which will carry no payload, is “to collect as much data and experience as possible”. The company told New Scientist that its staff were all too busy preparing for its test flight for an interview.
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Where and when will the launch take place?
The launch will take place at Andøya Space Center in Norway, and has been granted permission to go ahead by the Norwegian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA). Isar Aerospace says it is planning to launch on 24 March between 12.30pm and 3.30pm CET, weather permitting.
If successful, the launch will be the first flight of an orbital launch vehicle from continental Europe, excluding Russia.
Does Europe already have other launch companies?
It does, and some are quite established. The European market leader, Arianespace, was founded 45 years ago and carries out launches in collaboration with the European Space Agency and the French national space agency, CNES. But these launches take place in French Guiana, a French territory located in South America, and the rockets themselves – Vega C and Ariane 6 – are built by other companies.