U.S. space startup Vector completes 1st test launch of new micro rocket

May 3

U.S. space startup Vector successfully test-launched on Wednesday a small rocket for the first time from Mojave, California.

"Successful launch of the Vector-R is one giant leap for the industry!" the company tweeted on Wednesday.

An engineering model of the company's Vector-R rocket lifted off from a pad in Mojave Desert shortly after 12:00 p.m. PDT (1900 GMT). The model consists of the Vector's first stage 5K-lbf engine and 3D additive manufacturing printed injector.

"The success of this test not only sets the standard for the swift mobile development of our launch vehicles, but also furthers our mission to revolutionize the spaceflight industry and increase speed to orbit," Vector co-founder and CEO Jim Cantrell said in a statement.

Vector, founded in 2016 by experts from space rockstars such as SpaceX and Virgin, has a big vision to reshape the multi-billion launch market and dramatically increase access and speed to orbit.

According to the company, the Vector launch vehicle family consists of the Vector R (Rapid) and the Vector H (Heavy) launchers. The Vector-R launches up to 60 kg to Low Earth orbit with a small, simple two-stage rocket. And the Vector-H launches 125 kg to Low Earth orbit with a small, simple two-stage rocket.

The company plans to begin commercial launches in 2018, and is scheduled to conduct an additional test flight this summer.

"Our launch vehicle, under development for several years, will offer frequent access to space in much the same way airlines offer passenger service to destinations of your choice," the company says.