Design needs prompt bluShift Aerospace to delay Loring rocket launch

3 years ago

LIMESTONE, Maine — bluShift Aerospace, an aerospace startup based in Brunswick, said Tuesday that plans to launch a 20-foot-tall, 14-inch-diameter prototype rocket at the Loring Commerce Center in Limestone have been delayed. 

The notice sent via email on Nov. 24 said that the launch of Stardust 1.0 would be delayed a bit longer, as testing has revealed opportunities to improve the rocket’s design.

“Space is hard, and we want to do this right the first time,” bluShift said. “Thanks for your patience. Happy and safe Thanksgiving from the bluShift team. We’ll keep you posted.”

The launch will demonstrate the use of a bio-derived fuel that reduces the environmental impact caused by traditional liquid and hybrid rocket motors, as well as the commercial demand for suborbital launches by carrying commercial payloads.

The Stardust will have a 540-pound liftoff mass and reach a height of 4,000 feet.

The company is posting regular updates on Twitter at twitter.com/bluShiftAero and Facebook at facebook.com/bluShiftAero.