Astra Space is Waiting for FAA License to Proceed with TROPICS Launch Campaign

Small rocket manufacturer Astra Space is getting ready for NASA’s TROPICS launch mission. The NASA six satellites will fly into orbit as part of the TROPICS launch campaign as soon as the agency issues a license for Astra.

TROPICS Launch Mission Details

The TROPICS launch mission presupposes deploying a constellation of EOS CubeSats for monitoring the precipitation levels and storm intensity. According to Astra Space, the company is ready to carry the first six satellites onboard its Astra 3.3 rocket when NASA issues launch permission. The constellation will be deployed in three successive launches from Astra Space. While it is not yet clear when the TROPICS launch campaign should be complete, Astra hopes to proceed with as many satellite launches by the end of the quarter as the time and NASA license allows it. The three launches from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station will all be carried under one license.

Astra Space on TROPICS Launch Campaign

According to Astra Space CFO Kelyn Brannon, the rocket is ready for launch and waiting for the TROPICS Launch Campaign FAA license. As of now, the company does not announce any launch date estimates and urges the public not to rely on any ‘expert’ estimates either because those are not ‘reliable sources’ of information.

Astra Space also states that even when the TROPICS launch campaign is granted, it is highly unlikely that the company will be able to carry on all three launches by the end of this quarter. However, the team is determined to do their best if the weather allows it.

Astra Space CEO Chris Kemp states that the company will be working on the TROPICS launch campaign during storm season, which is why each consecutive TROPICS launch mission date may have to be adjusted due to weather conditions.