Astra Announces LV0007 Launch Window for the United States Space Force
Astra Space, Inc. (NASDAQ: ASTR) has announced a commercial orbital launch for the United States Space Force, utilizing the LV0007 vehicle to carry a test payload. The launch window spans from October 27 to November 12, 2021, from Kodiak, Alaska. Following an engine abort incident during the August 2021 launch of LV0006, Astra has implemented critical design changes to enhance safety. These updates include repositioning the propellant supply system and improving verification procedures. Astra remains committed to investigating the previous anomaly in collaboration with the FAA.
- Successful implementation of design changes to prevent future engine aborts.
- Collaboration with the FAA to enhance safety and investigation processes.
- Previous launch (LV0006) experienced an engine abort due to fuel and oxygen leak.
- Potential risks associated with future launches as changes are being implemented.
Source of LV0006 engine abort discovered and design changes implemented
Astra also announced findings from its investigation of the engine abort during the
Astra analyzed the cause of the anomaly, and implemented the following design changes in LV0007:
- The propellant supply system was reconfigured to reposition the fuel supply and liquid oxygen supply so that even if both were to leak again, they would not mix.
- The propellant supply mechanism was modified and requalified to reduce the risk of leaks in the future.
- Verification procedures have been improved for design and operational processes.
Astra continues to lead the LV0006 investigation in collaboration with the
“Data from the two-and-a-half-minute flight provided valuable insights that we have incorporated into LV0007 and future launch vehicles,” said
Astra will be sharing the launch livestream at Astra.com/livestream and will be providing updates on our Twitter account: @astra.
About
Astra’s mission is to improve life on Earth from space by creating a healthier and more connected planet. Astra’s first flight to space was within 4 years of its inception, making it the fastest company to reach space. Visit www.astra.com to learn more about Astra.
Safe Harbor Statement
Certain statements made in this press release are “forward-looking statements.” Forward-looking statements may be identified by the use of words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “expect,” “estimate,” “plan,” “outlook,” and “project” and other similar expressions that predict or indicate future events or trends or that are not statements of historical matters. These forward-looking statements reflect the current analysis of existing information and are subject to various risks and uncertainties. As a result, caution must be exercised in relying on forward-looking statements. The following factors, among others, could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in these forward-looking statements: (i) our failure to meet projected development targets, including as a result of the decisions of governmental authorities or other third parties not within our control; (ii) changes in applicable laws or regulations; (iii) the ability of Astra to meet its financial and strategic goals, due to, among other things, competition; (iv) the ability of Astra to pursue a growth strategy and manage growth profitability; (v) the possibility that Astra may be adversely affected by other economic, business, and/or competitive factors; (vi) the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on Astra and (vii) other risks and uncertainties discussed from time to time in our other public filings with the
When we use the phrase “commercial orbital launch,” we mean a launch conducted under an FAA commercial launch license.
View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211012005128/en/
Investor Contact:
dane@astra.com
Media Contact:
kati@astra.com
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FAQ
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