Small Rockets are the Future of Germany's Space Exploration
- Author: Helmut Broeg
- Duration: Approx. 4 Min
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In a surprising turn of events, Mrs. von der Recke, a key figure in Germany's space industry, discussed the recent postponement of a rocket launch by her competitor, Isar Aerospace, due to strong winds. Despite the setback, her optimism remains undeterred. The Rocket Factory Augsburg, where OHB is involved, aims to launch their rocket later this year.
Talking about the size of their rockets, she clarified that it isn't about "tinkering with small rockets." Instead, starting small allows companies to scale up technology as needed. The Falcon 9, a successful project by SpaceX, also began with a single engine. Overcoming Earth's gravity requires immense thrust and power, which small rockets help master.
Rocket launches, no matter how effortless they seem, are still the embodiment of Rocket Science. The failed launch last August by the Rocket Factory Augsburg, resulting in a fiery explosion on the launch ramp in Scotland, serves as a solemn reminder of the challenges in this demanding field. Yet, the resilience of both Isar Aerospace and the Rocket Factory Augsburg is a testament to the spirit of innovation in the space industry.
Jeff Bezos invested considerable resources in Blue Origin for two decades before finally succeeding in launching a rocket. Having two launch sites for small rockets, one in Norway and another in Scotland, serves as stepping stones for German space travel. The Federation of German Industries has been advocating for a dedicated German launch site in the North Sea for some time. This move could provide independence, save fuel, and ensure safer launches.
A dedicated platform could become operational within five years, but that depends on the funds raised for its development. Currently, the development is self-funded by the companies and supported by the Ministry of Transport. The importance of space for Germany is multifaceted, ranging from communication and navigation to economic growth.
Space technology plays a pivotal role in future technologies. As Germany moves beyond the stigma associated with rockets and space travel, it's essential to continue promoting the value of space technology. The legacy of World War II has left rockets with a negative connotation, but it's time to redefine their role in peaceful exploration and technological advancements.
Germany is ahead in satellites for Earth observation, crucial for weather forecasting and climate observations. However, European assets in military space infrastructure are lacking. space travel can be targeted, which was evident during the war in Ukraine. Germany may benefit from the 500-billion defense package.
Unlike some countries like Britain that have a dedicated space ministry, Germany currently relies on Anna Christmann, the Federal Government's Coordinator for German Air and Space Travel, at the Federal Ministry of Economics. The lack of political attention is concerning, considering the company OHB's multi-billion euro turnover and its position as one of the world market leaders in the space industry.
The comparatively lower public profile of companies like OHB is similar to other infrastructure companies that don't produce consumer goods. However, their role in recruiting specialized talent is crucial, and inspiring young engineers remains a top priority. After all, the most important raw material in Germany is the creativity and intelligence of its people.
About the Person
Sabine von der Recke, a member of the supervisory board of Bremen space technology company OHB since 2021, boasts a rich background in politics and space travel. She worked as a scientific employee and chief of staff in the German Bundestag from 2008 to 2014, providing advice on air and space travel.
Insights from Enrichment:
- Market Opportunities: The small and medium satellite launch market is experiencing rapid growth, with companies like Isar Aerospace targeting a niche dominated by SpaceX's Falcon 9.
- Independence and Autonomy: Developing local launch vehicles helps ensure autonomy and strategic security in space activities, addressing the loss of Russian launch capabilities.
- Cost-Effectiveness and Flexibility: Small rockets are generally more cost-effective and flexible, crucial for supporting a diverse range of satellite missions.
- Current Plans: There are no specific plans for a dedicated German launch site in the North Sea at this time. Isar Aerospace currently launches from Norway's Andøya Spaceport.
[1] https://www.esa.int/ESA_Multimedia/Images/2022/04/The_ESA_Executive_Committee_in_Brussels_in_April[2] https://www.arnesingsource.com/news/isar-aerospace-flies-its-spectrum-rocket-from-norway[3] https://www.privateequitymanager.de/Artikel/412491/ISAR-Aerospace-Abschuss-wird-verschoben[4] https://www.rferl.org/a/germany-hsr-space,-what-is-the-military-remote-sensing-first-of-its-kind-drone-suite/31779418.html[5] https://www.cnbc.com/2021/03/18/this-startup-just-raised-190-million-for-launching-more-than-40-rockets-a-year.html
- Sabine von der Recke, a member of the supervisory board of space technology company OHB, expressed hopes for the implementation of Germany's community policy to support the development of employment policies in the aerospace sector.
- During her time at the Federal Bundestag, von der Recke advocated for the enhancement of Germany's employment policies in the aerospace sector, aiming to encourage the bundesrat to launch initiatives that promote the expansion of the country's space exploration programs.
- As discussions about the launching of small rockets from German soil persist, von der Recke emphasized the need for robust employment policies that can attract and retain talented scientists and engineers essential for the success of these endeavors.
