Unseren unermüdlichen Drang nach Verbesserung setzen wir auch bei der Entwicklung von zukunftsweisenden Mikro-Startraketen in unserer Rocket Factory ein.
OHB hopes to have a small launcher capable of sending 200 kilograms to low Earth orbit conduct a first flight by the end of 2021, Fuchs said in an interview at Space Tech Expo Europe here. The German prime contractor established an entity called Rocket Factory Augsburg to spearhead the small launcher program.
Even so, OHB will need to develop new competencies, such as engines, since the company plans to build those systems in house. OHB currently envisions the launcher being a three-stage liquid propulsion rocket designed completely from scratch, he said.“We are not naive about building all these things you need for a rocket, but we feel we are better positioned than many of the startups,” he said.
New information about the micro launcher of OHB...With this information, the rocket, don't have any connection with the Brazilian VLM-1....Quote“We are not naive about building all these things you need for a rocket, but we feel we are better positioned than many of the startups,” he said. https://spacenews.com/ohb-defends-self-funded-launcher-effort/
“We are not naive about building all these things you need for a rocket, but we feel we are better positioned than many of the startups,” he said.
RFA-1 is a small liquid fueled orbital launch vehicle, which is being developed by Rocket Factory Augsburg (RFA), Germany, a subsidiary of OHB System....
Berlin-based rideshare solutions provider Exolaunch signed a wide-ranging MOU with Germany-based launch service provider, Rocket Factory Augsburg (RFA), to provide end-to-end launch services for small satellites, with Exolaunch procuring launch capacities from RFA....Rocket Factory, a start-up backed by the German satellite maker OHB as a strategic investor and Venture Capital firm Apollo Capital Partners, is currently developing an LEO launcher system called RFA One for small satellites with a payload performance of up to 300kg. The first launch is scheduled for 2022, and the company recently qualified the upper-stage tank system during cryogenic tests. Currently they are preparing hot-fire tests of the main engine in Esrange, Sweden.
First in Europe. Again.RFA is thrilled to announce the signature of a groundbreaking MoU with Andoya Space to implement the launch site for RFA ONE maiden flight. As the first European orbital launch service provider, RFA will provide launch services to customers worldwide from 2022 onwards launching out of Norway.We are looking forward to many successful missions launching from Andoya Spaceport!
Andoya Space Center posted a news release about the contract of RFA becoming a client for their (in development) spaceport. (It contains some more images)Rocket Factory Augsburg Signs Agreement with Andøya Space for maiden launch
Rocket Factory, a start-up backed by the German satellite maker OHB as a strategic investor and Venture Capital firm Apollo Capital Partners.
...
How far has the Andøya Space "in development" progressed? Are they anywhere near starting to build??
RFA apparently is in talks with the german government - together with new space companies Isar Aerospace and HyImpulse for a sea-launch facility in the North Sea - within German territorial waters - for launches to a polar launch corridor.
Quote from: CorvusCorax on 10/20/2020 10:34 amRFA apparently is in talks with the german government - together with new space companies Isar Aerospace and HyImpulse for a sea-launch facility in the North Sea - within German territorial waters - for launches to a polar launch corridor.https://www.offshore-spaceport.de/en/
[snip]A little bit desperate perhaps? Didn't they announce they were looking for money about a year ago? OHB is a billion dollar firm, why doesn't it chip in €25m itself if the management really has such strong belief as Fuchs and Steininger suggest?
In the meantime, the start-up has begun building prototypes of its engine.
Quote from: ringsider on 02/14/2021 05:42 pmIn the meantime, the start-up has begun building prototypes of its engine. The company has been around for years and is still only beginning to prototype the engine? That's a red flag and a half.(Unless they were originally going to buy an engine and now have to bring it in-house, but that still doesn't change the outcome)
Here is a German video report about RFA, published on 4 August 2020. The second half is a factory tour that also shows some rocket parts:https://www.butenunbinnen.de/videos/sendungen/butenunbinnen-2288.htmlNeed to scroll to the riight, it is the fourth of six videos. They still communicated a launch readiness date of early 2022 there. Does not say when this was recorded, but those "Buten und Binnen" reports generally look pretty up-to-date.
Quote from: ringsider on 02/14/2021 05:42 pm[snip]A little bit desperate perhaps? Didn't they announce they were looking for money about a year ago? OHB is a billion dollar firm, why doesn't it chip in €25m itself if the management really has such strong belief as Fuchs and Steininger suggest?I wish them well and look forward to a first launch and working hardware. However, given the recent situation and sentiments in Germany, investors are likely to look at the Wirecard disaster as well as the PTScientist x-prize to the moon. All dream of imitating Silicon Valley and startup success. Those German enterprises that I know with these dreams have not worked out because of various reasons. When I spoke with the PTScientists in 2019 in person, I had the impression of "keeping up appearances" which was followed indeed by bankruptcy. Therefore, while German engineers and scientists are typically great, German investors should request "better than usual" guarantees to make sure this is a legit rocket business attempt and not another trail of tears.
Quote from: gmbnz on 02/15/2021 03:47 amQuote from: ringsider on 02/14/2021 05:42 pmIn the meantime, the start-up has begun building prototypes of its engine. The company has been around for years and is still only beginning to prototype the engine? That's a red flag and a half.(Unless they were originally going to buy an engine and now have to bring it in-house, but that still doesn't change the outcome)Emphasis mine.The company was founded in the second half of 2018. So, they have been around for 'years' since the second half of 2020.Having said that...This 'red flag' is the result of a radical course change which happened in Q2 of 2020 (according to a source of mine in Germany). Until roughly May 2020 the RFA One rocket was designed to launch with 'simple' Gas Generator (GG) cycle rocket engines. By Q1 2020 RFA had developed and tested the ignitor, turbopump and gas generator.But then sometime around June 2020 the company quietly changed the design to incorporate Staged Combustion Cycle rocket engines. Which meant that most of the design of the rocket engine was dropped and replaced with a new design. It translated into a different turbopump, dropping the work on the gas generator, and developing a combustion cycle which is much more difficult to master than a GG cycle.The change in combustion cycle is also reflected in their projected first flight. That went from 'The first launch is scheduled for 2022' to 'The goal of the start-up is to develop a launch vehicle prototype by the end of 2022'. This latter statement meaning that first launch is now firmly in 2023, given that the prototype rocket first needs to be thoroughly tested before it can be launched.[snip]
Great bit of sleuthing here by a German journalist who thought small launch company Rocket Factory Augsburg's claims were too good to be true. He found the company recently switched to Ukrainian-made engines.
Damit fehlt in den Plänen der Rocketfactory Augsburg alles, was die Rakete und deren Geschäftsmodell glaubwürdig machen würde.
Everything that would make the rocket and its business model credible is missing in the plans of the Rocketfactory Augsburg.
Reading the articles translated through Google, I feel like the author is overstepping out of their lane making such allegations. Some of the comparisons being made are not very fair. Bringing in Aerojet Rocketdyne's AR1 into the conversation for one is not right just from the fact that it's Rocketdyne. Whatever may take 1 month at a start up, takes like 6 months at Rocketdyne due to all the processes behind everything. Also the AR1 project was at the mercy of funding and essentially the shareholders during quarterly earnings calls. Also, the fact that the author did not actually work at those companies that got mentioned like SpaceX, Rocket Lab and Astra, I don't think the author can make such bold statements. For one fundamentally, it is a different thrust class than the AR1 or Merlin which kind of limits them to certain manufacturing techniques that inherently take a long time like castings and forgings. Secondly, the Merlin went through many block upgrades during the timeframe the author specifies. One good comparison to make is Relativity who changed engine cycles midcourse like RFA has done, and Ursa Major Technologies who developed and hot fired an ox rich staged combustion engine in 2 years or so? Firefly got and hotfired engines from Ukraine shortly after being revived?I feel like the article is too bearish on their prospects and the author is out of their element in this field.
Well, I am the author of this article and I think some crucial details got lost in translation: The company claimed it was less than 2 years away from launch. The engines had not even been fired on the test stand so far. Not even the design of the rocket had been finalized 22 months ahead of launch.Besides the AR1 I also mentioned the BE-4, YF-100 and SCE-200 (the last two based on RD-120) - all of which took at least a decade to develop, despite having examples to work from, previous developments and considerable help from Ukraine and Russia at least in the case of the SCE-200. The argument was not that it would take a decade to develop the engine. Just that it would take much more time than the 22 months left until launch.Edit: Also, Raptor is in development since 2012 and still burns the occasional bit of copper in flight or fails to start up. It's development is not quite finished.Yes, Merlin went through 4 block upgrades until the first flight of Merlin 1D in 2013 (namely: 1A, 1B, 1C in Falcon 1 spec, 1C in Falcon 9 spec) - but in all engines prior to Merlin 1D the turbines and pumps were delivered from Barber-Nicols, not developed in-house. And it was a comparatively simple open cycle, not an oxygen rich closed cycle.Finally: The company only admitted to getting help from Ukraine after the article was published. So I think I was very much in my element there and pointed out a very sore spot.
The reporting by Frank Wunderlich-Pfeiffer generally tends to negativity. E. g. totally negative report about the Perseverance mission here. Wrote exactly one article about a Falcon 9 landing in the last two years - of course about a failed one. Emphasizing every mishap of Starship tests that did not go perfectly, calling it setbacks for SpaceX.Suggest to take the RFA article with many grains of salt.
If anything, partnership with Yuzmash/Yuzhnoye (well known manufacturers and designers of a wide variety of engines in different cycles) is more encouraging for a fast development time rather than completely in-house development.
https://www.rfa.space/launcher/According to the web site, they are using 9 engines in the first stage, and 1 in the second stage.I have no idea what Ukrainian engine this is based on.
Quote from: Danderman on 04/01/2021 02:50 pmhttps://www.rfa.space/launcher/According to the web site, they are using 9 engines in the first stage, and 1 in the second stage.I have no idea what Ukrainian engine this is based on.There it is written 1600 kg into the ISS orbit!The numbers are close to the Rokot. But the Rokot developed 190 tons of thrust at takeoff.RFA One less than half.
Well @elonmusk, some similarity can not be denied, can it? 😜🚀#RFA @SpaceX #Starship #RocketFactory Credits: @NASASpaceflight @BocaChicaGal
It's okay to copy SapceX as long as you manage to do something in space !But did you make the stainless steel before SpaceX ?
We chose the steel design more than 3.5 years ago. Hard to tell who had the idea before, but if you go for extensive reusability at lowest costs, steel is the material of choice.
https://twitter.com/rfa_space/status/1425142751436410880QuoteWell @elonmusk, some similarity can not be denied, can it? #RFA @SpaceX #Starship #RocketFactory Credits: @NASASpaceflight @BocaChicaGaltwitter.com/zouki_rud/status/1425197236498092032Quote It's okay to copy SapceX as long as you manage to do something in space !But did you make the stainless steel before SpaceX ?https://twitter.com/rfa_space/status/1425328326932144130Quote We chose the steel design more than 3.5 years ago. Hard to tell who had the idea before, but if you go for extensive reusability at lowest costs, steel is the material of choice.
Well @elonmusk, some similarity can not be denied, can it? #RFA @SpaceX #Starship #RocketFactory Credits: @NASASpaceflight @BocaChicaGal
You can't make an omelette without breaking eggs! With our cryogenic burst test we pushed the #limits of our first stage design and #successfully demonstrated the strengthening of our steel alloy under cryo conditions!A new first stage is already in the pipeline. On we go! 🚀
Rocket Factory Augsburg (@rfa_space) is a german startup developing a reusable rocket. They've recently conducted cryogenic pressure testing and engine testing for their RFA One rocket, set to debut in late 2022.Article by Adrian Beil (@BCCarCounters):
SENER Aeroespacial and Rocket Factory Augsburg AG (RFA) have agreed on a launch service contract. As a result, SENER Aeroespacial will launch its E.T.PACK technology demonstrator with the RFA ONE micro launcher.SENER Aeroespacial will launch its small satellite, called E.T.PACK, into near-Earth orbit at mid-inclination. E.T.PACK is a deorbit device that will demonstrate a novel electrodynamic tether technology for deorbiting satellites and launcher upper stages without chemical or electrical propulsion. The flight is of high interest for RFA since the potential adoption of SENER Aeroespacial technology in the future can be an asset for the RFA ONE launch system.The signing of the agreement took place on October 26 during the IAC 2021 exhibition in Dubai, between the Chief Commercial Officer of RFA, Jörn Spurmann, and the Director of Institutional Space Department of SENER Aeroespacial, Augusto Caramagno.
SENER Aeroespacial and the Universidad Carlos III de Madrid (UC3M) have set up a laboratory to develop a new device to deorbit space debris based on electrodynamic tether technology. The laboratory, located in SENER’s facilities in Tres Cantos (Madrid, Spain), will be used to integrate the avionics system into the deorbit device that is currently under development thanks to E.T.PACK, a FET-OPEN project funded with €3million by the European Commission.<snip>The opening of this new laboratory kicks off the process of integrating the avionics system into the deorbit device. The consortium will have the first complete prototype of the device ready by late 2022 and plans to mature it in a later project that will end with an in-orbit demonstration by late 2024. The goal is to have the system operational in 2025.
German launch startup Rocket Factory Augsburg has signed a new customer for the first launch of its RFA One rocket next year.The firm announced Nov. 18 a launch contract inked at the Space Tech Expo Europe in Bremen with Ukraine-based Lunar Research Service (LRS) for launch of a research mission. The spacecraft will launch on the first flight of the reusable RFA One launcher, currently set to take place at the end of 2022 from Andøya spaceport, Norway.During the expo RFA also signed a memorandum of understanding for cooperation with Morpheus Space with a view to integrating Morpheus propulsion systems in the RFA One, as well as another MoU with London-based space tech startup Lúnasa relating to the latter’s reusable orbital transfer vehicle named VIA.
Spanish-German company Plus Ultra Space Outposts is making moves to be the provider for essential communications and navigation infrastructure for upcoming moon missions.The Spanish-German company signed a launch agreement late October with Germany startup Rocket Factory Augsburg to launch Plus Ultra’s first satellite. That mission, set to launch in the final quarter of 2023, would see the roughly 400-kilogram satellite sent into geosynchronous transfer orbit. The satellite will then use its own electric propulsion system to reach lunar orbit, arriving in place around six months later.<snip>Plus Ultra’s Harmony constellation aims to provide greater coverage and data rates than those set out in requirements such as those in NASA’s LunaNet initiative, which seeks to put infrastructure in place, possibly using public-private partnerships, service contract arrangements and potentially multiple providers. “We’re talking about 100 megabits per user, we’re talking about global coverage, we are talking about a GPS-like navigation system,” says Ströhl. The goal would be to change communications and navigation from a carefully managed resource into an on-demand service that enables new capabilities.The completed constellation would consist of eight satellites orbiting in two planes, at 6,000 kilometers above the lunar surface and using laser communications links. The first four satellites would already provide 80% coverage of the lunar surface. The completed constellation would provide 100% coverage.
There are enough ideas and technological knowledge at RFA, nearly too much. E.g. there are ideas in the company to build larger rockets, to enable transporting larger satellites. But this just distracts from the actual goal.I want to sharpen RFA's product focus. Despite of all creativity and passion we face the exciting challenge to build a low-priced rocket with high reliability.
Enough with the renders! Let us introduce: The #Helix engine 🔥Ready for some more information on this marvellous piece of #engineering and the chance to win unique polaroid pics of this beauty? ⬇️ (1/6)Our #Helix is the first staged-combustion engine in the EU. Its oxygen-rich closed-cycle allows it to run more efficiently and be more #performant than open cycle engines. It is made of ❓ different materials, all working together to produce 100kN of thrust. (2/6)On our 1st stage we have 9x Helix with an Isp of 325s, on our 2nd stage one vacuum optimized Helix with 350s. Being closed-cycle, it emits fewer sooty exhaust gases, making it more #environmentally friendly & compliant with our vision to get closer to Earth from space. (3/6)Critical parts of the engine are #3Dprinted, which is perfect for complex and very fine structures, e.g. cooling channels. 3D printing also allows us to significantly reduce costs & production time as well as scaling and #automation of the production. (4/6)Last July, we successfully tested our in-house developed #Helix engine for the first time. Now that the first engine in flight configuration is ready, we are preparing for a long duration hot fire test. Stay tuned on that, it's going to be spectacular! (5/6)Now for the question mark from above: Can you guess how many different materials are used in the #Helix? Comment your guess to enter a draw for a chance to win one of only a few unique polaroid pictures of this beauty 😍 (6/6).
SENER Aeroespacial and Rocket Factory Augsburg sign launch service agreement [dated Oct. 26]QuoteSENER Aeroespacial and Rocket Factory Augsburg AG (RFA) have agreed on a launch service contract. As a result, SENER Aeroespacial will launch its E.T.PACK technology demonstrator with the RFA ONE micro launcher.SENER Aeroespacial will launch its small satellite, called E.T.PACK, into near-Earth orbit at mid-inclination. E.T.PACK is a deorbit device that will demonstrate a novel electrodynamic tether technology for deorbiting satellites and launcher upper stages without chemical or electrical propulsion. The flight is of high interest for RFA since the potential adoption of SENER Aeroespacial technology in the future can be an asset for the RFA ONE launch system.The signing of the agreement took place on October 26 during the IAC 2021 exhibition in Dubai, between the Chief Commercial Officer of RFA, Jörn Spurmann, and the Director of Institutional Space Department of SENER Aeroespacial, Augusto Caramagno.Launch will take place "by late 2024":SENER Aeroespacial and the UC3M open a laboratory to integrate a deorbit device to eliminate space debris [dated Feb. 3]QuoteSENER Aeroespacial and the Universidad Carlos III de Madrid (UC3M) have set up a laboratory to develop a new device to deorbit space debris based on electrodynamic tether technology. The laboratory, located in SENER’s facilities in Tres Cantos (Madrid, Spain), will be used to integrate the avionics system into the deorbit device that is currently under development thanks to E.T.PACK, a FET-OPEN project funded with €3million by the European Commission.<snip>The opening of this new laboratory kicks off the process of integrating the avionics system into the deorbit device. The consortium will have the first complete prototype of the device ready by late 2022 and plans to mature it in a later project that will end with an in-orbit demonstration by late 2024. The goal is to have the system operational in 2025.
The E.T.PACK-Fly consortium, coordinated by the Universidad Carlos III de Madrid (UC3M) and made up of the University of Padova, the Technical University of Dresden (TU Dresden), the Spanish company SENER Aeroespacial and the German start-up Rocket Factory Augsburg (RFA), has received €2.5 million from the European Innovation Council (EIC) to develop a device based on a space tether to deorbit space debris.<snip>With a duration of two and a half years, the project will start in September 2022 and it aims to prepare the flight model of a deorbit device to be launched into orbit in 2025. RFA and SENER Aeroespacial have already signed the launch service agreement.
RFA posted a follow up image with major components of their engine labeled:Looks like they're using electric TVC actuators. I'm aware technological capability here as improved over the last 10 years, but it seems like an odd choice for given the fuel pressures they're likely working with in a staged combustion engine (with their performance, I'm assuming they're using kerosene, but couldn't find explicit reference to it).They're using the tried-and-true TEA-TEB system with a canister/ampule made from what appears to be welded pipe caps.It's interesting to see a spin-start exhaust. I haven't paid too much attention to staged combustion engines - I assumed that would exhaust through the normal turbine exhaust path like it does on gas generators but I guess that could have detrimental impacts to start up operations/transients.
Launch services provider Rocket Factory Augsburg AG has tested its staged combustion Helix engine for the first time for a total duration of 74 seconds. This marks the successful completion of the first test campaign of the Helix flight configuration and confirms RFA’s milestone traction towards service commercialisation.
Raw footage from the Helix 40-second hot fire test for a great start to the week! 🔥
740s or 7400s of engine testing required to certify the engine for launch?
Our oldest rule? New is always better! So in line with our recent technical developments & market-derived analysis, we are proud to release the latest version of our Payload User Guide (PUG). Request the new PUG here ➡️ https://www.rfa.space/request-users-guide/
Rocket Factory Augsburg (RFA), a German startup developing the three-stage RFA One orbital launch vehicle designed to operate at a high cadence, has received a contract worth €11.72 m from ESA's Boost! commercial space transportation services programme.
In a recent NSF Live epsiode with @rfa_space, Dr. Stefan Brieschenk talked about the company's plans for reusability, the Helix engine, and more.Article: https://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2022/10/rfa-reuse-interview/✍️me for @NASASpaceflight
https://twitter.com/bccarcounters/status/1584588326920912898QuoteIn a recent NSF Live epsiode with @rfa_space, Dr. Stefan Brieschenk talked about the company's plans for reusability, the Helix engine, and more.Article: https://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2022/10/rfa-reuse-interview/me for @NASASpaceflight
In a recent NSF Live epsiode with @rfa_space, Dr. Stefan Brieschenk talked about the company's plans for reusability, the Helix engine, and more.Article: https://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2022/10/rfa-reuse-interview/me for @NASASpaceflight
Quote from: FutureSpaceTourist on 10/24/2022 04:53 pmhttps://twitter.com/bccarcounters/status/1584588326920912898QuoteIn a recent NSF Live epsiode with @rfa_space, Dr. Stefan Brieschenk talked about the company's plans for reusability, the Helix engine, and more.Article: https://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2022/10/rfa-reuse-interview/me for @NASASpaceflightNothing on how they plan to recover booster. Interesting bit on why spark ignitions aren't used to relight kick stage engine.
What. A. Sight! 😍 Our upper stage with a Helix engine. Ready for Integrated Systems Testing (IST) to validate the full #functionality & compatibility of all systems. How? With a #hotfire over its entire flight duration. Here, all stage systems are tested simultaneously. (1/3)
The fully integrated stage includes the tanks and umbilical connections, the pressure, relief and vent system, our kerolox staged combustion engine #Helix, its control system, the flight control system, and other critical components 🚀 (2/3)
The test campaign will start in the coming weeks and ensure qualification and further development of our upper stage and Helix engine. Btw: we use a sea-level nozzle for these first tests and replace it with the vacuum variant before flight 😉 (3/3)
Is this missing a nozzle extension for vacuum?
Good catch! Yes, we use a sea-level nozzle for these first tests and replace it with the vacuum variant before flight.
Exciting news! Our first launch will take place from @SaxaVord_Space on the Shetland Islands!Our launch stool is already installed. After completing the launch site, we will soon be conducting 1st stage static fire tests there. Read the press release➡️
Rocket Factory Augsburg's first launch to take place from SaxaVord SpaceportSaxaVord Spaceport and RFA announce multi-year launch operations partnership January 11, 2023Augsburg, Germany & London, UK, 11th January 2023 – Launch service provider Rocket Factory Augsburg AG (RFA) and SaxaVord Spaceport have today announced their launch operations partnership. RFA will have exclusive access to Launch Pad Fredo for orbital launches, meaning the company’s first launch of its RFA ONE launch system – currently planned for the end of 2023 – will take place from the northernmost point in the UK.The commercial Spaceport in Shetland is ideally located for RFA to launch payloads at high cadence into polar and sun-synchronous orbits. Existing logistics and infrastructure, launch readiness, as well as rapid implementation and matching mentality were key factors why RFA chose to partner with SaxaVord. With the multi-year partnership, which includes investments in the double-digit million pound range, RFA is securing its first-flight launch site in order to be able to provide its services individually and flexibly to customer requirements.The launch pad and launch stool were fully completed by the end of 2022. The RFA launch pad is therefore the first for vertical orbital rocket launches in the UK and mainland Europe. In the future, the launch pad will not only be used for orbital launches, but for testing and qualification of the RFA ONE core stages. These tests are expected to begin in mid-2023. The first launch will then be into a 500 km high sun-synchronous orbit.“We are super excited to launch our first flight from SaxaVord. This partnership of privately financed companies enables the spirit and speed that we need, to be on top of the commercial small launch competition,” said Jörn Spurmann, Chief Commercial Officer at RFA. “The SaxaVord team was incredibly determined to build our launch pad and get the operations up and running. We are proud to be part of this historic event for the UK having built the first launch pad in mainland Europe. We firmly believe in the UK’s strategic space vision and are absolutely convinced that the double-digit million investment in the site is well placed on our part.”SaxaVord Spaceport CEO Frank Strang said: “We’re delighted to kick off the New Year by announcing our partnership with RFA. We will support RFA across the entire lifecycle of a launch, from facilitating testing, inspections, fueling and safety, to supplying MET weather data and access to our ground station network for data capture and distribution. The entire team cannot wait to welcome RFA and work closely as we edge closer to the UK’s first vertical space launch in Unst.”The partnership will allow RFA to launch satellites, the majority of which are active in two major areas: Earth observation and communications. The data collected by these satellites can benefit any industry. Examples of applications include: Optimization of logistics routes, early detection of forest fires, Internet of Things, analysis of ground conditions, maintenance of infrastructure, collection of health data, self-driving cars, climate and environmental protection. In this way, RFA acts as an enabler to better connect, understand, and protect our Earth.About SaxaVordSaxaVord Spaceport (SaxaVord) is the UK’s first vertical satellite launch facility and ground station located at Lamba Ness in Unst, Shetland. Given Unst is the UK’s highest point of latitude, SaxaVord offers customers a geographic competitive advantage enabling unrivalled payloads per satellite, launch site operations, a network of ground stations, as well as in-orbit data collection and analysis. SaxaVord has received endorsement from the UK Space Agency’s (UKSA) Sceptre Report and formed industry-leading partnerships. It has also been chosen to host the UKSA’s UK Pathfinder launch, which will be delivered by Lockheed Martin and ABL Systems, in 2022.Integral to the UK’s space economy ambitions, SaxaVord is building a highly skilled workforce, championing STEM education and supporting the economic regeneration of Shetland. Follow the journey of SaxaVord, from ground preparation to launch, here.
The RFA launch stool on the shetland island. In the front the dark blue ocean, in the back the brown hills.
Imagine standing on the cliff in the background and watching the lift-off 🚀 What a landscape and what an atmosphere! A truly unique place for our first launch at the end of the year.
... Of the three German orbital launcher startups, RFA looks most promising - they are technologically ahead of ISAR Aerospace and HyImpulse. Yes, it would be no surprise if none of them survives, and also none of the other rocket builders that were founded during the past eight years. But I don't see an indication that an end of RFA is imminent.
Quote from: PM3 on 03/18/2023 07:13 am... Of the three German orbital launcher startups, RFA looks most promising - they are technologically ahead of ISAR Aerospace and HyImpulse. Yes, it would be no surprise if none of them survives, and also none of the other rocket builders that were founded during the past eight years. But I don't see an indication that an end of RFA is imminent. As long as Arianegroup and Avio continue to get almost all of the public development funds in this sector, that is exactly what will happen.
Quote from: GWR64 on 03/18/2023 08:42 amQuote from: PM3 on 03/18/2023 07:13 am... Of the three German orbital launcher startups, RFA looks most promising - they are technologically ahead of ISAR Aerospace and HyImpulse. Yes, it would be no surprise if none of them survives, and also none of the other rocket builders that were founded during the past eight years. But I don't see an indication that an end of RFA is imminent. As long as Arianegroup and Avio continue to get almost all of the public development funds in this sector, that is exactly what will happen.Which is why OHB selling their shares is concerning, since they are have vested interest in competing with AG and a well known rivalry.
(source in German)
But the majority stake sale per se is not bad. E. g. it may mean that OHB has found a capable investor who is willing to found RFA through going orbital, under the condition that OHB gives them total control of the company.
When you read the German newspaper, the article is clear is that there is no new investor on the horizon. OHB wants to "take a step back" and get rid of their 57%. They are looking for buyers but no interest yet.
+/- three days...who cares? #teamspace In the meantime, we're excited to shorten the wait for you!We have ticked off another milestone! ✅ Our team in Portugal has been successfully building & testing our in-house developed fairing. Here's a look behind the scenes ⬇️
280 seconds! RFA completes full durationFirst full duration hot fire of a staged–combustion stage in EuropeJune 2, 2023Augsburg, Germany – June 2, 2023. Launch service provider Rocket Factory Augsburg AG (RFA) has successfully hot fired its upper stage for a full duration of 280 seconds. This marks the successful completion of the Integrated System Test (IST) campaign, in which a staged-combustion Helix engine was integrated into an upper stage tank system and hot fired several times up to full duration in the final test. This is the 1st time in Europe that a privately developed staged combustion upper stage has been successfully hot fired. In the now successfully completed IST campaign, all stage level systems and components were tested. The final test was a full duration burn of 280 seconds. This makes RFA the 1st private company in Europe to successfully hot fire a stage with a staged-combustion engine for its full duration. With this long duration burn, the Helix engine is now qualified at the same time for both first and second stage flight.”The upper stage performed flawlessly and ran through the full 310s autosequence without tripping any redlines. The engine run-time was 280s and no damages could be identified after the test. This is the first successful qualification test of our upper stage, and we are super proud of our team for designing, building and testing in such a time- and money-efficient fashion” said Dr. Stefan Brieschenk, the company’s Chief Operating Officer. “The data we have collected will allow us to tune all stage sub-systems, for both the upper and first stage. Our next big step is the first stage hot firing test. We are approaching our first launch with great strides, it is getting serious.” Dr. Stefan Tweraser, RFA’s Chief Executive Officer added: “This successful test is a massive leap forward for us. It’s a full confirmation of our strategy to develop a small launcher that is both very powerful and achieves cost-leadership. With this full duration test we have demonstrated again that we are able to complete more milestones with less, but smarter investments than any of our competitors”. The campaign, which was conducted at Esrange Space Center in Sweden, is the most important milestone in the development process so far: 280 seconds of steady-state combustion proved the functionality and compatibility of all upper stage systems, including fueling processes, fuel management, pressurization, sensors, propulsion and control. Valuable data was collected for further engine and stage optimization. RFA will now focus on the assembly of the first stage and continue the construction work on the launch pad. About staged combustionBack in July 2021, RFA became the first company in the European Union to successfully develop and test a staged combustion engine with a successful eight-second hot fire test. This made RFA the third commercial company in the world to successfully test a staged combustion rocket engine on a large scale. This was followed in August 2022 by a hot fire campaign of the Helix in flight configuration with a total burn time of 74 seconds. The same engine was fired and stopped three times without having to replace any components. The staged combustion technology is characterized by higher efficiency and performance compared to conventional open-cycle rocket engines. The partially unburned exhaust gases from the turbopump are fed into the main combustion chamber, avoiding the release of unburned fuel. Recycling the exhaust significantly increases the efficiency of the launch vehicle while reducing launch costs and minimizing CO2 emissions during rocket launches. About Rocket FactoryRocket Factory Augsburg was founded in 2018 with the vision to enable data generating business models in space to better monitor, protect and connect our planet Earth. Against this background, the company’s goal is to offer launch services of up to 1.300kg into low Earth orbits and beyond on a weekly basis at highly competitive prices. With this, RFA wants to democratize access to space and reduce the launch costs in the space industry. The RFA ONE launch service combines three key competitive advantages: A customer focused service with precise in-orbit delivery and a high degree of mission flexibility through its Redshift OTV; at a highly competitive price; made possible by superior staged combustion technology, low–cost stainless steel structures and usage of industrial components.
Question to the members who've been following RFA, are they still using Yuzhmash-supplied components like RD-8 design based turbopump? I've naturally assumed that their Helix engine after the transition to SCC would've continued using Ukrainian components and design but it seems like their progress wasn't as hugely affected as I've anticipated by the war. Or did they actually turn in-house with a new design?
04/05/2023 - Conflux Technology (Conflux) – an Australian metal additive manufacturing (AM) innovator of heat exchangers, and German-based Rocket Factory Augsburg (RFA) are entering into a partnership to embed the Conflux heat exchanger into a gas duct of an orbital rocket. This project is part of the Australian Space Agency’s Moon to Mars Initiative: Supply Chain Capability Improvement Grant Program. The $1 million AUD grant funding is being used to develop and manufacture this 3D printed heat exchanger.
In April 2024, another German firm – Rocket Factory Augsburg – aims to achieve the first-ever orbital satellite launch from European soil after blasting off from a launch pad called Fredo at SaxaVord.
In the 5⃣ years since RFA was founded, we developed our staged-combustion Helix engine, built and qualified the first stage of our RFA ONE and, as the first company in Europa, conducted a successful staged-combustion upper stage hot fire test 🔥 Now we raised €30m from @KKR_Co.And we’re not slowing down! What do we have planned?We will use the funds to facilitate our upcoming integrated first stage test, complete our company's launch pad at @SaxaVord_Spaceport in Scotland, and ultimately bring our RFA ONE to the launchpad. We look forward to lifting off! 🚀
Oddly short cone on top, including the cap. I guess they expect to have a payload fairing over the cone and pressurized volume (white part), but the service module/trunk part looks more like an externally exposed shell? Getting a HIAD-like capsule vibe for some reason.
Quote from: Asteroza on 09/21/2023 04:15 amOddly short cone on top, including the cap. I guess they expect to have a payload fairing over the cone and pressurized volume (white part), but the service module/trunk part looks more like an externally exposed shell? Getting a HIAD-like capsule vibe for some reason.The 'cone' over the docking adapter is likely a contamination cover to prevent FOD on the mating and sealing surfaces, with protection from ascent aerodynamic loads being a completely separate structure; e.g. a discardable nose cover, or launching inside a fairing.
The sky's not the limit anymore; it's just the beginning!Today, at the @Der_BDI #Weltraumkongress in Berlin, we unveiled a groundbreaking partnership with @yurigravity and @AtmosSpaceCargo that will redefine micro gravity research, product development and in-space manufacturing as we know it!Read our full press release ➡️
Three German NewSpace companies launch “Eva”, the world’s first end-to-end microgravity service for biotech research and product developmentOctober 18, 2023Rocket Factory Augsburg (short: RFA) offers flexible and low-cost launch services thus providing affordable access to spaceATMOS Space Cargo develops reusable, modular, and highly scalable return space capsules for any scientific payload, experiment, or equipmentYuri develops modular bioreactors and incubators to be used in microgravity environments to develop and manufacture superior biotech products in spaceThe new microgravity end-to-end service will be available from 2025.This service is an answer to the growing demand of the life sciences industry. The total in-space manufacturing market is expected to reach €7 billion in 2030.Weltraumkongress, Berlin, Germany – October 18, 2023.Three pioneering German NewSpace companies, Rocket Factory Augsburg (RFA), Yuri, and ATMOS Space Cargo (ATMOS) announced their new partnership and launch of their joint end-to-end service for microgravity life science research and product development at this year’s edition of Weltraumkongress in Berlin, Germany. This holistic solution represents an unprecedented and flexible alternative to the ISS laboratory and initiates a new generation for microgravity research and thus advancement in biotech, life science, and product development worldwide. THREE NewSpace experts - ONE microgravity serviceIn this consortium, Rocket Factory Augsburg is responsible for the entire launch service, including the launch system, infrastructure, outbound logistics, and the operational launch campaign. RFA will be delivering ATMOS Space Cargo’s Phoenix capsule with Yuri’s ScienceTaxi to the precise target orbit in a flexible and low-cost manner. The company will be responsible for the integration of the Phoenix space capsule onto its RFA ONE launch system while providing late access to the payload.The launch campaigns are to be carried out from SaxaVord Spaceport (previously known as Shetland Space Center) on Unst, the most northerly of the Shetland Islands in Scotland, UK.Yuri operates the ScienceTaxi, which will be integrated into the Phoenix capsule by ATMOS Space Cargo. With its groundbreaking life science incubator and bioreactor solutions, Yuri will be responsible for the execution of biotech research and manufacturing in space.ATMOS Space Cargo is responsible for the re-entry logistics and operating the return mission of the Phoenix return capsule which will be carrying Yuri’s ScienceTaxi. ATMOS will supervise and execute the safe return from low Earth orbit (LEO) to the Azores and carry out the early retrieval of the capsule after landing as well as the recovery mission to the final location.Jörn Spurmann, CCO at Rocket Factory Augsburg: “With “Eva” we will set up a unique global service that will allow breakthrough insights in BioTech and product development. Customers receive a complete solution from three experts in their respective fields, allowing them to focus on their core business. We are also particularly proud to be able to fully map the value chain with our partners in Germany. This is a great sign of German NewSpace Industry capability.”Maria Birlem, Co-CEO at Yuri:“In this new era of space exploration and commercialization, Europe and Germany must not only witness, but actively shape the future. With the combined strengths of Rocket Factory Augsburg, ATMOS Space Cargo, and Yuri, we’re not just aiming to level the playing field with the USA; we’re setting our sights on pioneering new frontiers in LEO commercialization. It’s high time Europe takes its rightful place at the forefront of space innovation.”Christian Grimm, Lead Systems Engineer and Co-Founder of ATMOS Space Cargo: “We are excited to establish the first full end-to-end service for biotech research in microgravity and thus creating new possibilities to utilize space for in-orbit product development. With our partners at Yuri and at the Rocket Factory Augsburg, we will boost the German NewSpace industry to the forefront of Europe’s expertise in space. This will mark the turning point for affordable in-orbit science and a possible role model for the commercialization of space – launch, return, repeat!” — END —
UK helps fund Rocket Factory Augsburg’s maiden flightTAMPA, Fla. — The UK Space Agency is providing £3.5 million ($4.3 million) to help Germany’s Rocket Factory Augsburg prepare for its maiden flight next year from SaxaVord Spaceport, located in Scotland’s Shetland Islands.
ESA further boosts @rfa_space across Europe. 🚀RFA One is an orbital vehicle that will have three stages and be launched from @SaxaVord_Space in the UK. 30 m tall and 2 m in diameter, RFA One targets a deployment capability of up to 1300 kg to a 500 km polar orbit.RFA One is being developed in Augsburg, Germany 🇩🇪, with hot-fire tests of the engine and second stage performed at @SSCspace Esrange in Sweden 🇸🇪 under initial Boost! co-funding committed by @ESA in 2022. Check out this hot-fire test of the Helix engine 🔥The orbital stage for RFA One, Redshift, is being partly developed in Portugal 🇵🇹. @esa's funding is to aid manufacturing, assembly, integration and system tests leading to hot-fire tests of the Redshift orbital stage.RFA One is set to be launched from @SaxaVord_Space, Shetland Islands, northern UK 🇬🇧. ESA is contributing to develop and deploy the launch pad infrastructure to further test the RFA One first stage, perform its inaugural launch and ensure regular service afterwards.“We are especially pleased to see Boost! funds being distributed across @ESA Member States to support development of RFA One spurring pan-#European highly-skilled jobs and knowhow to foster commercial space.” Details:
4000kg cargo capability up and down. ✅13 cubic meters of pressurized volume. ✅2 unique Fenix engines. ✅1 Inflatable Atmospheric Decelerator for full reusability. ✅ Argo was designed for heavy lifting.Find out why at https://www.rfa.space/argo/
.@rfa_space have upped the payload capacity of Argo from 3.4 tonnes to 4 tonnes. This is very likely in response to ESA increasing its requirements for the agency's Commercial Cargo Transportation Initiative from 2 tonnes to 4 tonnes.
Bit wary of launch company that keeps changing its design for first LV. They are also trying to build cargo resupply capsule which will spread their financial and engineering resources thin.
I was wondering why RFA chose a 3 stage rocket over two stages. The trend for new launchers is towards two stages for simplicity. I know a lot of older launchers did a third stage as a later capacity update (especially if they started as a ICBM like Soyuz or Atlas), but that doesn't seem like a good reason here. If they just need a efficient upper stage for GTO etc. a better option might be some kind of space tug. Also if they focus on LEO where a lot of the new high volume launcher business is a third stage in general doesn't seem that useful. What could be the reasons for this design choice?
Rocket Factory Augsburg@rfa_spaceIt's time to fly...almost!These #Helix engines are now ready for installation on the first stage of #RFAONE. This team of pioneers is responsible for developing the first staged-combustion engine in the EU and shaping the future of more efficient and low-cost space exploration. And this is only the beginning.Their next move? Just wait and watch.
Quote from: yoram on 03/03/2024 06:48 pmI was wondering why RFA chose a 3 stage rocket over two stages. The trend for new launchers is towards two stages for simplicity. I know a lot of older launchers did a third stage as a later capacity update (especially if they started as a ICBM like Soyuz or Atlas), but that doesn't seem like a good reason here. If they just need a efficient upper stage for GTO etc. a better option might be some kind of space tug. Also if they focus on LEO where a lot of the new high volume launcher business is a third stage in general doesn't seem that useful. What could be the reasons for this design choice?They may not have been able to solve the problem of re-igniting the second stage engine. Or they thought it was easier and cheaper to make the upper stage (which is still needed for high-energy orbits) than to tinker with re-ignition.
Rocket Factory Augsburg@rfa_spaceWhat a milestone! 🚀 Our team has integrated 5 Helix engines onto the RFA ONE's first stage, fully equipped the thrust frame, and completed checkouts ready for its hot fire at @SaxaVord_Space! Before we head there, the team will leave their mark – literally. More very soon!
Has anybody visit Augsburg? I am from South-Africa, and will be in Germany in July. Is it worth it to try and visit Augsburg and maybe tour the facility?Any advice?
New video from Tim Dodd with factory tours of RFA and Isar Aerospace, comparing and contrasting the two companies' philosophies.
In Tim's video they said: "yadada automotive guru what is your most reliable valve...", "oh, our most reliable valve is in the actuation mechanisms of the spot welder".Yes. Automotive. Very reliable and very cheap. So reliable that they jump directly to industrial grade hardware. E.g.: if you take some crap motor for a car seat actuation these things cost dollars if not cents, have a lifetime specified in single digit hours.If you go into the components with highest reliability like anti blocking braking, these things are highly reliable. But they would also be highly expensive if you wouldn't build millions of them per year. But much more: Their reliability comes often from special designs which makes them very reliable but also less efficient. So it typically comes with higher weight.
Quote from: Remes on 05/16/2024 02:55 pmIn Tim's video they said: "yadada automotive guru what is your most reliable valve...", "oh, our most reliable valve is in the actuation mechanisms of the spot welder".Yes. Automotive. Very reliable and very cheap. So reliable that they jump directly to industrial grade hardware. E.g.: if you take some crap motor for a car seat actuation these things cost dollars if not cents, have a lifetime specified in single digit hours.If you go into the components with highest reliability like anti blocking braking, these things are highly reliable. But they would also be highly expensive if you wouldn't build millions of them per year. But much more: Their reliability comes often from special designs which makes them very reliable but also less efficient. So it typically comes with higher weight.Industrial automation valves may be exceptionally reliable when it comes to life cycle and consistency in performance, but they're also operating in benign conditions: ambient room temperature and humidity, minimal vibration, no shock, and 1G of acceleration (unless those robots are hauling), and vacuum. Working around cryogenic propellants and hot preburners will be a challenge and the seal materials, metal strengths, tolerances and fits and clearances, will all have to be evaluated. Vibration and shock can make many components that have low seat loads (used for hair trigger or precise actuation) suddenly start chattering or burping. Solenoids and motors may require atmospheric conditions to take heat away and will bake themselves to death in space.Valves that are on cars, especially trucks and construction equipment would give me more confidence, but as you note that reliability comes with size and mass.Those automotive electrical connectors may work phenomenally in cars, rockets are famously violent and make engine or road vibration look like chump change. What might have been under the endurance limit of the material may suddenly start fatiguing or breaking or very short time scales.
Amazing experience seeing a rocket test live at @SaxaVord_Space. Great job @rfa_space. Feel incredibly lucky to be at the right place at the right time!
Industrial automation valves may be exceptionally reliable when it comes to life cycle and consistency in performance, but they're also operating in benign conditions: ambient room temperature and humidity, minimal vibration, no shock, and 1G of acceleration
and vacuum
Working around cryogenic propellants and hot preburners will be a challenge and the seal materials, metal strengths, tolerances and fits and clearances, will all have to be evaluated....
I mean, if you can just take an industrial valve, ask the manufacturer for the same thing with higher operating tolerances, and use that in a rocket engine successfully, then that's ingenious and you probably will out cost-compete your competitors.
I guess we'll find out.
You have variable displacement axial/radial piston pumps which have lifetimes between 50...100000h. The valves that go on that are tested to the same spec as the Space Shuttle on the launchpad (30g, Shock I don't remember).
...but can you do that? Does that work? I guess we'll find out.
As you might expect, the idea of using hi-rel (but not space) parts has been around for a long time, and feasibility ends up being highly application dependent. For the initial goal of just getting to orbit quickly, and assuming RFA doesn't currently expect mission lifetimes beyond that of the 10-ish minutes the launch vehicle needs to work, then I think automotive grade parts could be good candidates.At least, for some of the parts. But there's no need to use them for everything. They always have the option of using space grade when necessary, or taking automotive parts and upscreening them if they're almost-but-not-quite good enough. One of the undefined initializations in that deck is "SCD" which stands for "Source Control Drawing", which you can think of as customizing an existing part. If agreed upon by the manufacturer, then the manufacturer will sell them parts that have any additional screening/testing performed that RFA deems necessary, but none of the screening standard to space-grade parts that may be unnecessary. If they go automotive without a second thought, they'll probably end up learning some expensive lessons. But assuming they characterize their mission profile/requirements properly, they could probably be quite successful going automotive. Like you said, we'll see how things actually turn out.
Yeah, RFA's tour had a lot of moments that had me raising my eyebrows. I mean, if you can just take an industrial valve, ask the manufacturer for the same thing with higher operating tolerances, and use that in a rocket engine successfully, then that's ingenious and you probably will out cost-compete your competitors. ...but can you do that? Does that work? I guess we'll find out.
In a recent spacenews interview[1] with Aschbacher he stated that two companies who bid for ESA's commercial space station cargo program were not considered technically competent enough, but they are continuing to have discussions with them. I assume one of those is RFA's Argo [2] proposal. I was wondering what the technical problems could be. Argo uses an inflatable heatshield. Even though it has been proven in prototypes I assume it is still considered high risk technology. According to the website Argo's main focus is cost effectiveness. Maybe they just cut too many corners for ESA's taste? Any other areas that could be problems?[1] https://spacenews.com/europe-seeks-to-launch-into-clearing-skies/[2] https://www.rfa.space/argo/https://www.rfa.space/ultimate-guide-to-argo/
The Exploration Company while a startup has lot exATV engineers and is purely focused on reentry capsule design . Hope to fly small demo capsule Bikini in 2024 on A6 maiden launch.https://www.exploration.space/progress
RFA - before its first launch out of Saxavord - has lost its vehicle during a Static Fire test. It is not the first new company to lose a vehicle, and it won't be the last. And that is the point of testing: to find issues under controlled circumstances on the ground rather than during ascent.
Monday evening, RFA conducted a hot fire of its first stage at their launch site at SaxaVord Spaceport.This resulted in an anomaly that led to the loss of the stage. No one was injured in the process. The launch pad has been saved and is secured, the situation is under control, and any immediate danger has been mitigated. We are now working closely with SaxaVord Spaceport and the authorities to gather data and info to eventually resolve what happened.We will take our time to analyze and assess the situation.We develop iteratively with an emphasis on real testing. This is part of our philosophy and we were aware of the higher risks attached to this approach. Our goal is to return to regular operations as soon as possible.We will keep you updated on our channels. Until then we kindly ask for your patience.
As it has done throughout the test campaign, SaxaVord Spaceport will support its client RFA in its investigations following Monday's stage loss.All safety protocols were fully observed and the site evacuated prior to the test, meaning no RFA or SaxaVord personnel were at risk.
A spokesman for SaxaVord said: "This was a test, and test campaigns are designed to identify issues prior to the next stage."We will work with RFA to understand and learn from the causes and support them as they move forward to the next phase of their preparations."
Footage of the @rfa_space anomaly at @SaxaVord_Space has been shared on the @BBCNews #NewsAtTen
Following yesterday's anomaly of RFA One at SaxaVord Spaceport, NSF reached out the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) for comment.The agency confirmed it has been made aware of the anomaly and is in contact with both RFA and SaxaVord to begin the investigation."We have been made aware of an anomaly following an engine test by RFA Rocket at SaxaVord Spaceport and are in contact with both organisations."While the CAA is involved in the investigation, we believe it will be led by the Air Accidents Investigation Branch.
Statement: Saxavord SpaceportAdvancing space technology is complex and at the cutting edge of aerospace and tests like the one at SaxaVord are essential to achieve future success.Incidents like this are anticipated by operators and the regulations and safety exclusion zones are in place to protect people and property.As the UK's space regulator, safety is our priority and we're in contact with those involved to make sure the industry continues to have the highest levels of safety and that all parties understand and learn from what has happened.UK Civil Aviation Authority
Tonight's #bbcnews has a picture of the aftermath.
The first high resolution satellite image of Rocket Factory Augsburg's launch site at SaxaVord Spaceport following an anomaly during a hot fire test of its ONE rocket.
This is a tough post to write 😢. On Monday, we faced one of the hardest moments in our journey at Rocket Factory Augsburg - RFA. During a hot-fire test of our first stage, an engine anomaly led to a fire which we were unable to contain - and we lost the stage. I’ll be honest – it hurts so darn bad 😖. All the blood, sweat and tears that we put into this - lost. I was unable to sleep for the last days and was overcome with dizziness every time I tried to close my eyes. My friends and my family are invested into this and I cannot fail them. I cannot fail the team, the investors, the suppliers, the supporting institutions, the country, the European Union. I cannot fail on the belief that small, high-performance rockets can be built with an automotive mindset to reduce cost to a point where this becomes a major disruption.Engineering is about pushing the boundaries, embracing the unknown and create things that have not existed before. At RFA, we embrace sparse-matrix engineering, rapid innovation and iteration through testing. Going out into the field testing something is many times harder than iterating systems in a computer. I have that frequent thought that plagues me: I have done this for so many years now, why cannot I take this way more easy and slow down? Why do I push so hard? Every time! Well, every time we do this the hard way and get into the test, we learn things that we could not have possibly learned from a simulation, so testing is key. Testing comes with inherent risk. Not every test goes as planned and setbacks are part of the process. Losing an entire stage so close to launch though - was not anywhere in my mind. So right now, we're analyzing the details and assessing the situation. We had a close look at all the hardware on site - and finished an internal review a few minutes ago. The root cause at this very preliminary stage seems to have been an oxygen-fire in one of the turbopumps. That engine and that turbopump have run before without issues. Eight engines ignited. We had multiple back-up and safety systems in place that were supposed to shut everything down - but things did not align on Monday as planned. Our team is working hard to make sure we come back stronger. If there's one thing I’ve learned on this journey, it’s that Team RFA is ultra resilient, dedicated, and relentless in our pursuit of excellence. We will bounce back from this, and our best days are still ahead. We’re more determined than ever to achieve our mission and get to first test flight as soon as possible. Thanks to everyone who has already reached out with support for us. We're going to overcome this. Monday evening was a nightmare, but the dream is alive and we will make it reality! We took that picture below when we first fired-up that stage in #SaxaVord a few months ago. That day - was one of the best days in my life and that video to me is the best thing on youtube! There will be more of that!
UPDATE on our S1 test anomaly! Our first stage is gone – but we have collected a significant amount of data and film footage. After reviewing it, we want to share some insights into the technical analysis, preliminary conclusions and our next steps ⬇️
it was quite a unique failure & was surprised there was no explosion. When I watched the BBC video my first thought with all the flamey melty sparks was that the rocket itself was burning. Any thoughts from those with experience on what direction the fault tree goes with something like this? RFA says they have never seen anything like this in over a hundred tests, and given their openness, I think if they had a clue from their telemetry, they would have shared that.so...1. Manufacturing flaw2. Damage during tansport3. Differences in ground procedures and GSE at this site vs. other tests4. Acoustics at this site5. F.O.D in the LOX?
https://twitter.com/rfa_space/status/1827030581986611696
To the above list one more item should be added; Sabotage. (https://www.economist.com/europe/2024/05/12/russia-is-ramping-up-sabotage-across-europe)RFA would be a relatively soft target.
To circle back around to the regulatory aspect of the RFA anomaly last month:The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has confirmed to me that there is no CAA investigation into the anomaly of RFA's first stage at SaxaVord Spaceport last month. The agency & SAIA determined this anomaly was not a "spaceflight accident" under UK legislation. This is similar to the decision the FAA makes following anomalies with US Launch Vehicles.The agency confirmed they are engaging closely with RFA and SaxaVord "to ensure lessons are learnt".
Under UK legislation, the definition of a "space accident is:"Any accident that takes place during, or as a result of spaceflight activities in or over the United Kingdom, or elsewhere (if any of the circumstances referred to in regulation 16 apply)".The Space Accidents Investigation Authority (SAIA) reserves the right to waive an investigation, as is the case for this anomaly."When the SAIA has received a notification, it will review the information available and decide on an appropriate course of action. Depending on the circumstances, the SAIA response will range from no further action to launching a full investigation."
Congratulations to @SpaceX, what an incredible feat of engineering! Mars, here we come. At the same time, the coin has a second side: it shows and confirms that #Europe has completely lost touch. Can it still catch up? No chance. At least not the way things are going at the moment. Europe has ambitious private space players. With innovative ideas, courage and a vision. Unfortunately, they are being held by the long arm and are in danger of withering away while old structures, processes and mindsets are maintained. What we need immediately and systematically are state anchor customers, substantial investment, and a framework that allows and promotes unbureaucratic, fast and risk-taking development. Otherwise, Europe will quickly sink into insignificance when it comes to the exploration of space, its resources and its potential. And we leave it to the rest of the world to make history. Just like #SpaceX did yesterday. It is up to Europe, up to us. 📷: SpaceX
At RFA, we're committed to democratizing access to space to better understand, connect and protect our planet. Our new #blog delves deep into RFA ONE, showcasing the engineering behind our innovative three stage launch vehicle – from its cost efficient stainless steel construction to Helix, the only staged-combustion engine in the EU.Learn how RFA ONE is designed for performance, cost-efficiency, reusability, and flexibility in orbit. Whether you're a space enthusiast or a professional, this guide offers insights into how we envision the future of #European space transportation.
Did you know that our stainless steel tanks are only 1.2 mm thick? This means that it can withstand the required flight pressure, but also has sufficient inherent stability when unpressurized, which brings major advantages in terms of handling.Why stainless steel? It's cheap, perfect for series production and can be reused. Yes, we are planning to reuse S1 in the future!
We're kicking off the day with a breathtaking sunrise over our launch site at @SaxaVord_Space. A reminder that the sun rises again and again, even after darker nights (looking at you, S1002). We will be back soon!
After we had carried out the first stage one hot fire test with four Helix engines, the remaining engines had to be retrofitted. To do this, we have a working platform in the launch stool that gives us access to the engine bay of the S1 and a crane that can be used to lift Helix engines up to the stage, for example. Practical.
does this day 2 post mean that they already have a new stage 1 in scotland?
📢 RFA received its launch licence!! We are thrilled to announce that we have been awarded our Spaceflight Operator Licence by the @UK_CAA! This historic licence makes us the first European company to receive regulatory approval for orbital rocket launches from mainland Europe 🤯The licence is not limited in time and covers a wide range of orbits and trajectories. All three key regulatory authorisations required for an RFA ONE test flight in 2025 from @SaxaVordSpaceport have now been granted 🚀 What a vote of confidence from @UK_CAA and @spacegovuk, thank you!Read more in our press release ➡️
RFA receives launch licence from the UKFirst licence for vertical orbital launches from European mainlandJanuary 16, 2025Augsburg, Germany – January 16th, 2025. Rocket Factory Augsburg (RFA), a European leader in developing flexible and low-cost launch services, proudly announces that it has officially received its spaceflight operator licence from the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). In combination with the spaceport licence and the range control licence from SaxaVord Spaceport, all three critical regulatory licences required for a test flight in 2025 from Scotland are therefore granted.The spaceflight operator licence, also called launch licence, is of historic significance: RFA is the first company in Europe to receive such a licence for vertical launches of a privately developed orbital rocket. With this, RFA now has regulatory approval from the United Kingdom´s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) to launch into space from Scotland. The licence is not limited in time and covers a wide range of orbits and trajectories. It validates RFA’s commitment to meeting stringent safety and operational standards, reinforcing the company’s readiness to execute its first test flight in 2025. Obtaining this historic approval demonstrates the trust that the CAA and UK have in RFA’s technology, team and philosophy. With this regulatory green light in place, RFA is now shifting its focus to the final technical preparations for the first test flight. The company has already completed major development milestones, including the successful flight qualification of the RFA ONE’s second stage, its advanced Redshift orbital transfer vehicle (OTV), and its payload fairing system. The remaining efforts are centred on building the rocket´s first stage with nine Helix staged-combustion engines, and conducting a full hot fire test on the launch pad at SaxaVord Spaceport, Scotland.“This is a groundbreaking moment for RFA and for Europe’s space industry,” said Jörn Spurmann, Co-founder and Chief Commercial Officer of RFA. “Securing the first-ever launch licence outside ESA’s established site in Kourou is not just a regulatory milestone – it’s a powerful endorsement of our technical excellence and a turning point for European space innovation. This license marks Europe’s bold step toward independent, competitive, and sustainable space access. By enabling cost-effective and flexible launches from European main land, we are laying the foundation for a new era of space exploration and commercialization, ensuring Europe remains at the forefront of the global space race. Together with the CAA and our partners, we are driving the future of accessible and reliable spaceflight, unlocking opportunities that will shape industries and inspire generations.”Rob Bishton, CEO of the UK Civil Aviation Authority, said: “This is a new era for aerospace and granting the first vertical launch licence from UK soil builds towards a historic milestone for the nation. This licence is the culmination of extensive hard work behind the scenes to put appropriate safety and environmental measures in place before launch. Through effective licensing and regulation we are enabling the expanding space sector to reach new heights.”Matt Archer, UK Space Agency Director of Launch, ISAM, and Space Sustainability said: “This licence approval is a landmark moment, as it signals the start of vertical rocket launches from European soil. The achievement, driven by effective collaboration between RFA, SaxaVord Spaceport, the regulator and government partners, highlights the growing strength of the UK’s launch capabilities and our international relationships. What’s more, ambitious companies like RFA are creating high-skilled jobs, catalysing investment, and inspiring the next generation to see their future in space.”As Europe strives for greater autonomy and flexibility in space access, the RFA spaceflight operator license highlights the importance of developing privately driven, innovative solutions to meet the rapidly growing demand for satellite launches. The upcoming test flight of RFA ONE will position RFA as a key player in Europe’s spaceflight ambitions, providing a reliable and affordable launch service for small satellites, right from European mainland.+++END+++
Rocket launch expected in the third quarter of this year, says RFA CEOStefan Tweraser, CEO of Rocket Factory Augsburg (RFA), discusses the granting of a spaceflight license in the U.K. and plans to launch this year.
🚀 Day 3 of Our #RFAdvent!Nooo, do not even think about it...this Helix will not lay under your Christmas tree.
Yes, we are planning to reuse S1 in the future!
The rocket they are building is the "minimum viable product" with a capability of 500kg of payload, the full rocket will have 1.5t .
Quote from: TheKutKu on 04/02/2025 07:25 pmThe rocket they are building is the "minimum viable product" with a capability of 500kg of payload, the full rocket will have 1.5t .It only has five instead of nine engines. So this is not RFA One (see RFA website) but a smaller demonstrator rocket. Suggest to call it RFA Zero.
Quote from: PM3 on 04/03/2025 08:47 amQuote from: TheKutKu on 04/02/2025 07:25 pmThe rocket they are building is the "minimum viable product" with a capability of 500kg of payload, the full rocket will have 1.5t .It only has five instead of nine engines. So this is not RFA One (see RFA website) but a smaller demonstrator rocket. Suggest to call it RFA Zero.That was just a testing setup (he was just commenting on it when the image came up on stream), all flight rockets will use 9 engines.
Probably because doing anything in Europe [deleted]. So, you have to start small. Europe is still sleeping, pretending to be the crown of civilization while the world keeps turning...And I am a native European...
In an April 11 statement not widely publicized by the company, RFA announced that Stefan Tweraser, who had been chief executive since October 2021, had been replaced by Indulis Kalnins.
Big news: RFA has been selected as a winner of the European Launcher Challenge by @esa. This is a major milestone for us - and a strong vote of confidence in our technical roadmap, commercial strength, and long-term vision. With ESA funding in the three-digit million range until 2028, we will deliver: 🔹Launch services using RFA ONE Block 1 – our current configuration, being prepared for its first test flight later this year 🔹A capacity demonstration of RFA ONE Block 2 – our subsequent configuration with increased payload capacity This win reflects the incredible work of our teams, who have navigated a competitive and evolving framework with precision and persistence 💪 More than just a funding success, the ELC marks a paradigm shift in European space flight: from government-built rockets to commercial, privately developed launchers. We’re proud to be a leading company in this transformation – making space access in Europe more flexible, cost-efficient and scalable! 🚀
Rocket Factory Augsburg@rfa_spaceLiterally shaking! Behind the scenes of a special test 🚀Earlier this year, Redshift, our third stage, completed a full vibration test campaign in flight configuration!Unlike isolated component checks, this was the real deal: all systems integrated and tested under simulated launch conditions. Because launch is no gentle ride. Everything must endure intense vibrations and still perform flawlessly.The result? Electronic connections remained strong, the systems (including antennas, telemetry, flight computer, navigation systems) stayed up and running, and we obtained valuable data to further refine and improve.Enjoy this glimpse of Team Redshift and their work behind the scenes, turning challenges into progress, one test at a time!
Is strange, RFA start early than ISAR, and both failed with the first "launch" but Isar is close to the second flight, and not news from RFA One for the second flight...
Quote from: Tywin on 11/13/2025 01:02 pmIs strange, RFA start early than ISAR, and both failed with the first "launch" but Isar is close to the second flight, and not news from RFA One for the second flight... According to Stefan Brieschenk, "everything has to be as cheap as possible" — So they probably shipped the rocket using DHL’s economy service — arrival estimated sometime next decade.but in the end, I don’t think being the first to achieve a successful launch really matters that much. What will truly matter is who can launch reliably, on schedule, and cheapish.
Quote from: Tywin on 11/13/2025 01:02 pmIs strange, RFA start early than ISAR, and both failed with the first "launch" but Isar is close to the second flight, and not news from RFA One for the second flight... RFA was aiming for an early 2026 launch back in September.They were still repairing their launch pad then, it suffered more damage than what they publicily reported. By comparison Isar thankfully didn't damage their launch infrastructure in their launch attempt.
The RFA One launch pad infrastructure was ~60% destroyed or damaged to the point that it needed to be replaced. In essence, after that "little mishap" they nearly completely rebuilded the RFA One launch pad.
QuoteThe RFA One launch pad infrastructure was ~60% destroyed or damaged to the point that it needed to be replaced. In essence, after that "little mishap" they nearly completely rebuilded the RFA One launch pad.This is interesting — do you have a source where I can about this?
"Launch site infrastructure is fine, there is basically no damage on the launch site systems except the direct supporting systems of the stage that are integrated on the launch stool."
Quote from: FreakySquirrel on 11/15/2025 05:59 amQuoteThe RFA One launch pad infrastructure was ~60% destroyed or damaged to the point that it needed to be replaced. In essence, after that "little mishap" they nearly completely rebuilded the RFA One launch pad.This is interesting — do you have a source where I can about this?https://twitter.com/rfa_space/status/1827030581986611696Quote"Launch site infrastructure is fine, there is basically no damage on the launch site systems except the direct supporting systems of the stage that are integrated on the launch stool."
