RFA Hot Fire Anomaly Ends With Loss Of Vehicle
RFA has announced the loss of their first stage during a hot first test at their launch site at SaxaVord Spaceport.
2 minute read•Updated 5:31 PM EDT, Mon August 19, 2024
RFA has announced the loss of their first stage during a hot first test at their launch site at SaxaVord Spaceport.
"On Monday evening, RFA conducted a hot first of its first stage...This resulted in an anomaly that led to the loss of the stage. No one was injured in the process" - RFA Statement
RFA has confirmed that "the launch pad has been saved and is secured" and now they will work closely with SaxaVord Spaceport and the UK Authorities to gather all the data, investigate the anomaly and work to resolve them" - RFA Statement
"We will take our time to analyze and assess the situation" - RFA Statement
RFA has been known to develop their vehicle with real world testing and learning.
"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." - RFA Statement
The maiden flight of RFA One will now slip to sometime in 2025, when the RFA team is ready!
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As a journalist Zac writes about space exploration, technology, and science. He has covered Inspiration-4, Artemis-1, Starship IFT-1, AX-2 on location.