A rocket from the German company Rocket Factory Augsburg (RFA) exploded this week during a test on the Shetland Islands. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
“We’ll take the time to analyze and assess the situation,” RFA representatives told The New York Times, adding that the explosion and subsequent fire were caused by an unspecified anomaly.
If RFA succeeds in improving the rocket and achieving a successful launch, the BBC reports that it would be the first vertical rocket launch in European history.
SaxaVord Spaceport, the provider of the launchpad that was damaged in the failed test, stated that test campaigns are designed to identify issues before advancing to the next stage. “This was a test, and testing is intended to highlight problems ahead of further development,” a representative commented.
They further emphasized that SaxaVord would continue to collaborate with RFA to understand the causes and learn from the incident. SaxaVord also expressed full support for RFA as they proceed to the next phase.
The UK’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) shared a similar stance, noting on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) that progress in space technology is challenging, and tests like this are essential to future success. “Incidents like this are anticipated by both operators and regulators,” the CAA concluded.
