Astra, a California-based aerospace company, has announced a significant contract with the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) worth up to $44 million. This deal aims to enhance Astra's production capabilities for its next-generation Rocket 4, which is designed for tactical space launches from various global locations, including the U.S. and Australia.
Rocket 4 is set to be larger and more powerful than its predecessor, Rocket 3, which was retired in 2022 after facing multiple launch failures. The new two-stage rocket will stand 62 feet tall and is expected to carry payloads of up to 1,320 pounds to low Earth orbit. Astra plans to achieve a launch frequency of approximately once a week once operational.
CEO Chris Kemp emphasized the importance of this contract in validating Astra's vision for responsive space delivery, particularly for national security and defense applications. The company aims to leverage its innovative technology to meet the growing demands of space missions.
This development marks a pivotal moment for Astra, which recently transitioned from a publicly traded entity to a private company to stabilize its operations. The successful deployment of Rocket 4 could have significant implications for tactical space operations and the broader aerospace industry.