ABL - New Entrant Into The Small Sat Market

Things are looking tough for the new kid on the block. ABL space systems RS1 rocket aborted during ignition at T-1.75 seconds. This happening after two previous aborts going back to November 17th.

A failed ignition was also the culprit within these launch attempts, including a turbopump issue. Look like its not third-times-a-charm for this rocket, unlike the most recent historic launch of Artemis I, the first step back to the moon and beyond. The RS1 is to carry two small cubesats called VariSat-1A and VariSat-1B.

Whats Next For ABL?

For those who are new to spaceflight or needs to have an orientation session with this new company, this launch vehicle will leave Earth from launch pad 3C at the Pacific Spaceport Complex in Kodiak Alaska. It will try another attempt on December 7th. Teams at ABL are gathering data about the leak and turbo pumps. Once those issues are ironed out, the rocket is set for the proposed date.

The RS1 is kerosene and liquid oxygen powered. This rocket is just as tall as its 12 million dollar price tag per launch. It stands only 89 feet tall with its two stages. There are rumors of a Cape Canaveral launch in the 4th quarter of 2022. ABL employes just over 100 people and is headed by Harry O'Hanley.

Are We There Yet?

Time will tell if ABL's new rocket will ever reach orbit. Will this be another Astra? We will find out December 7th. See you on the launch pad!