Private rocket reaches orbit from the European continent for the first time

A privately developed rocket has reached orbit after launching from the European continent for the first time, marking a significant step towards stronger European satellite-launch capacity.

The uncrewed Spectrum rocket lifted off from Andøya spaceport in Arctic Norway at 10:12pm local time on Saturday. The 28-metre, two-stage vehicle passed an altitude of about 100 kilometres in under four minutes. Its German developer, Isar Aerospace, later said five satellites were deployed successfully. The payload also included a scientific experiment that remained attached to the upper stage.

The achievement came on Spectrum’s second test flight. Its first launch, in March 2025, ended in the sea about 30 seconds after takeoff. The latest mission was also delayed several times by technical problems, poor weather and a boat entering the restricted safety area.

The milestone applies specifically to the European continent. European rockets have long launched from Kourou in French Guiana, which is politically part of France but geographically in South America.

Europe currently relies heavily on launch services based outside the region, particularly SpaceX in the United States. Isar Aerospace is among a new group of commercial providers working to give European satellite operators more launch options closer to home.