Isar Aerospace: Europe’s First Commercial Orbital Rocket Takes Off
Isar Aerospace Makes Space History
A Munich-based startup has done what no one else in Europe has: successfully launching the continent’s first orbital-capable rocket from mainland Europe. The short test flight from Norway’s Andøya Spaceport might have lasted just 30 seconds – but it’s a giant leap for Europe’s space ambitions.
Europe’s Journey to Space – Powered by Isar Aerospace
At exactly 12:30 PM Central European Summer Time on 30 March 2025, it finally happened: Spectrum, Europe’s first privately developed orbital launch vehicle, lifted off from Andøya Spaceport in Norway. Built by German space startup Isar Aerospace, the rocket embarked on its maiden flight.
Roughly 30 seconds after launch, the flight was intentionally terminated as planned, and the rocket made a controlled descent into the sea. Far from a failure, this marks a successful debut: key systems were tested, flight data collected – and the next launch is already on the horizon.
CEO Daniel Metzler sums it up: “Our first test flight met all expectations. We had a clean liftoff, 30 seconds of flight – and we even validated our flight termination system.”
What Does an “Orbital Launch” Actually Mean?
Simple: it’s when a rocket is launched far and fast enough to enter Earth’s orbit. This kind of mission is essential for things like telecommunications, navigation, Earth observation, and climate research.
What made this flight so special? It was the first time an orbital-capable rocket launched from continental Europe. Until now, these kinds of missions mostly took place outside Europe – like in French Guiana (Ariane) or the US (SpaceX, Rocket Lab).
Andøya: The New Launch Hub for European Spaceflight
Norway’s Spaceport Could Be a Gamechanger
Located in northern Norway, Andøya Spaceport isn’t just another launch site – it’s the first and only operational launch facility for orbital rockets on the European mainland. Norway’s Civil Aviation Authority was also the first in Europe to issue a civilian licence for this kind of test flight.
Daniel Metzler highlights the importance of collaboration: “Takk, Norge – thank you to Andøya Spaceport and the entire community. We’ve found bold and reliable partners here to build Europe’s path to space.”
From Uni Project to Market Leader?
A Munich Startup Success Story
Founded in 2018 by three aerospace students from the Technical University of Munich, Isar Aerospace has quickly become one of Europe’s most exciting NewSpace startups.
It all started in the MakerSpace of UnternehmerTUM, where the first prototypes were built. Fast forward to today, and the company has over 300 employees, raised more than €400 million in venture capital – from investors like HV Capital and Lakestar – and now manufactures in Ottobrunn, near Munich.
The Rocket: What Can Spectrum Do?
- Length: 28 metres
- Payload capacity: up to 1,000 kg to low Earth orbit (LEO)
- Target customers: small and medium-sized satellites
- Unique selling point: nearly all parts, including the engines, are made in-house
In short, Spectrum is Europe’s answer to the growing global demand for flexible, affordable satellite launches. Right now, launch capacity is tight, slots are expensive, and fully booked months in advance.
Why a Short Flight Is Still a Big Win
Data, Safety, and Trust
With any rocket launch – especially a first flight – it’s not just about getting to orbit. It’s about learning.
This test mission was deliberately stopped after 30 seconds – a standard procedure to test the flight termination system: a safety feature that allows a mission to be ended in a controlled way if something goes wrong.
According to CEO Metzler, everything worked as planned: “We proved we can design, build and launch a rocket. Now it’s time to analyse the data and get ready for the next one.”
What’s Next?
Serial Production and More Launches
The rockets for flights #2 and #3 are already in production. What’s special here: Isar Aerospace uses vertical integration – meaning they produce almost everything themselves, from engines to electronics.
At their new facility in Ottobrunn, up to 40 rockets can be built per year. That means scale, speed, and independence.
Bulent Altan, Chairman of Isar Aerospace and former SpaceX executive, is optimistic: “It usually takes a few attempts to reach orbit – but I believe Isar Aerospace will be among the fastest to get there.”
Europe’s Space Future Needs Startups Like Isar Aerospace
Independent Access to Space Is Becoming Crucial
Given today’s geopolitical climate, Europe needs its own space infrastructure – and that means one thing above all: independent access to orbit.
Thanks to Isar Aerospace’s successful test flight, Europe has taken a huge step in that direction. With cutting-edge tech, a launch site in Norway, and scalable production in Germany, this startup is a real beacon of hope for Europe’s space future.
Photo/Source: (c) Isar Aerospace, Brady Kenniston, NASASpaceflight.com
Photo/Source: (c) Isar Aerospace, Photo Robin Brillert, Wingmen Media Photo/Source: (c) Isar Aerospace,
