Astro Digital, a leading provider of holistic solutions to develop, deploy and operate space infrastructure, has announced the successful dedicated launch of its latest mission with Rocket Lab from their New Zealand launch facilities.
"As a smallsat operator that prides itself on the ability to rapidly develop and deploy innovative satellite constellations and technology proof of concepts, having an organization like Rocket Lab to partner for the launch phase of the mission is critical," stated Chris Biddy, Astro Digital's CEO.
"This launch is an excellent case in point; we were able to complete and launch the satellite within six months," continued Biddy. "The launch went flawlessly, and we couldn't be more excited about the mission's progress," said Biddy.
"The mission is a perfect example of the tailored, responsive, and precise launch service sought by an increasing number of small satellite operators," stated Lars Hoffman, Rocket Lab's Senior Vice President of Global Launch Services.
"We are honored Astro Digital has selected Rocket Lab as the launch provider for their dedicated mission. The Electron launch vehicle, with its unique Kick Stage, is perfectly positioned to provide the tailored, rapid, and responsive access to space that rideshare models can't deliver," said Hoffman.
"With this launch, our technology demonstration is focused on next-generation communications and propulsion capabilities combined with our flight-proven and application-agnostic 16U micro-satellite bus," stated Patrick Shannon, Astro Digital's Vice President, and Palisade Program Manager.
"In essence, we're looking at one of the most capable micro-satellites ever launched," continued Shannon.
