Southern Launch delivers world-class launch facility for customer ATSpace
The ATSpace Kestrel I rocket ready to launch from the Whalers Way Orbital Launch Complex
Southern Launch has proven the world-class capabilities of the Whalers Way Orbital Launch Complex by supporting their customer ATSpace to reach the final hour of the launch countdown for two separate missions.
Unfortunately, both of the VS02 and VS03 ATSpace launch vehicles suffered technical faults that resulted in launch scrubs on both occasions.
For Southern Launch, both missions are a significant step forward in the company’s ability to provide spaceport facilities for their customers.
Southern Launch CEO Lloyd Damp says, ‘Throughout these campaigns Southern Launch has demonstrated to the global space industry that we can deliver a world-class launch facility. I’m incredibly proud of the services we have provided to ATSpace and we look forward to supporting them and other customers at the complex in the not too distant future.’
The full-service model that Southern Launch provides has enabled ATSpace to focus on preparing their launch vehicles. Lloyd Damp explains, ‘Our goal is to provide an end-to-end service for our customers that encompasses everything required to launch a rocket including logistics, permits, regulatory approval and expert support during the launch campaign.’
The VS02 mission was set for lift off on December 15. The countdown began at 4:45am and preparations went smoothly until a leak was detected during oxidiser loading in the first stage of the vehicle. The launch was scrubbed at T-57 minutes. Further investigation of the vehicle revealed a leak that would require attention at the ATSpace manufacturing facility in Adelaide.
The VS03 mission was attempted on December 18 and was scrubbed at T-15 minutes after a leak was identified during oxidiser loading in the second stage of the vehicle. Again, repairs were required at the ATSpace manufacturing facility in Adelaide.
Southern Launch CEO Lloyd Damp says, ‘Space is hard and we congratulate ATSpace on getting two rockets to within one hour from launch. We look forward to working with ATSpace again in the future.’
The VS02 and VS03 missions will not be reattempted in 2022.
