Initially the mission seemed successful. The rocket lifted off from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, carrying a Lockheed Martin satellite designed to test a new electronically controlled antenna. Alpha reached the intended orbit, and second stage separation and engine shutdown proceeded as planned. However, approximately 40 minutes after the second stage was activated, a malfunction occurred and the device deviated from its route.
“We will work with our customers and government partners to examine the operation of phase two and determine the root cause,” Firefly said in a statement.
Although communication has been established with the satellite, its fate remains unclear. Placing the satellite in an off-design orbit could lead to premature re-entry into Earth’s atmosphere, jeopardizing Lockheed Martin’s planned antenna tests. The company has not yet commented on the situation.
During its first mission in October 2022, Alpha also sent a payload into a lower orbit than planned. These recurring problems call into question Alpha’s reliability and ability to compete in the increasingly crowded small satellite launch market.
Source: Ferra
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