First RFA launch in a “matter of weeks”

Rocket Factory Augsburg (RFA) is “a matter of weeks” away from attempting its first orbital launch, according to the chief executive of its corporate parent.

He noted that all three stages of the rocket as well as its payloads are now at the spaceport, with the second stage and kick stage already fully tested. The first stage has undergone static-fire tests with four of its nine engines there. All nine engines are now installed, Fuchs said, and static-fire tests with all nine are pending.

Sounds promising! Looking forward to another orbital launch vehicle!

Just kidding...

https://x.com/rfa_space/status/1825634436794245548

On Monday evening, RFA conducted a hot fire of its first stage at their launch site at SaxaVord Spaceport.

This resulted in an anomaly that led to the loss of the stage. No one was injured in the process. The launch pad has been saved and is secured, the situation is under control and any immediate danger has been mitigated. We are now working closely with SaxaVord Spaceport and the authorities to gather data and info to eventually resolve what happened.

We will take our time to analyze and assess the situation.

We develop iteratively with an emphasis on real testing. This is part of our philosophy and we were aware of the higher risks attached to this approach. Our goal is to return to regular operations as soon as possible.