German launch startup Isar Aerospace has signed its first US customer, winning a multi-launch contract from Spaceflight, Inc.
The deal will see Isar launch a single dedicated Spectrum flight from Norway’s Andøya Spaceport in 2026. There is also a provision for a second Spectrum flight in 2025.
“We’ve seen an increased demand for flexible and affordable launch options around the globe, but especially for our European-based customers,” said Spaceflight CEO Curt Blake. “We’re very much looking forward to working with Isar Aerospace to help us meet that growing need.”
The vehicle: Isar’s 28 m Spectrum launch vehicle is designed to carry up to 1,000 kg payloads to LEO. The company is currently targeting 2023 for Spectrum’s maiden flight. According to the company, work toward that flight is “progressing well.”
A growing launch manifest
The Spaceflight, Inc. contract is Isar’s first for 2023, and adds to its growing launch manifest.
The company signed its first launch contract with Airbus Defense and Space in April 2021 to deliver an EO satellite to orbit. Airbus Ventures is also an investor in Isar, having participated in the startup’s $17M Series A. Since then, Isar has broadened its customer base outside its investor group and added flights for OroraTech, EnduroSat, and Astrocast.
Another space tug: Spaceflight, Inc. is the third in-orbit logistics service company with which Isar has signed a launch contract. Last November, the startup signed a contract with Exotrail for several missions to orbit for its spacevan orbital transfer vehicle. And in June, it signed a deal with Italy’s D-Orbit to carry its ION Satellite Carrier to orbit.
With its growing launch manifest indicating a healthy operational future, all that’s left is for Isar to get its bird in the air.
