SKYRORA has successfully launched its two-stage, four-metre tall sub-orbital rocket, Skylark Micro from the company’s mobile launch complex set up within a few days at Langanes Peninsula, Iceland.
The rocket climbed to 26.86km in altitude before both stages were parachuted back down to sea.
The launch is part of Skyrora’s de-risking program leading up to the building and launching of its orbital vehicle, Skyrora XL, scheduled for 2023.
The launch of Skylark Micro was to test onboard electronics and communications that will also be used in the larger Skylark-L and Skyrora XL launch vehicles.
Until this year, Iceland had no permit procedure to allow rockets to be launched from the country. However, after Skyrora travelled to Iceland in January to meet the relevant government officials and see the launch site, the Icelandic authorities agreed upon and implemented a framework to allow the launch.
Volodymyr Levykin, Skyrora chief executive officer, said: “I am very happy that Iceland has allowed us to launch from their country. This allowed us to continue our developmental and de-risking programme. It is critical that we complete the programme so we can scale up and learn from any mistakes before launching our larger launch vehicles, Skylark L and Skyrora XL.
“These de-risking launches are all about learning and education. The Icelandic launch has allowed us to test our avionics and communications on a smaller and more cost-effective vehicle. I also hope this educational launch promotes the space industry in a positive way and inspires the younger generation.
“I could not be more thankful for Iceland putting the permit framework together in such a short period of time.”
Icelandic government officials and ministers have expressed their delight of Skyrora expanding its business to their country.
Thor Fanndal from Space Iceland said: “We congratulate Skyrora on its successful launch. All of us at Space Iceland are immensely proud of our contribution to this. It only took six months to secure all permits which we believe is a testament to the efficiency of Iceland’s public agencies.”
