The German startup Isar Aerospace has successfully launched a rocket into orbit from continental Europe, according to Le Monde.fr. The launch took place from a site in Bavaria, marking the first time a private company has achieved this feat from the European mainland.
Le Monde.fr reports that the achievement is set to disrupt the European space sector, which has traditionally relied on government-backed programs and launches from French Guiana. The successful mission positions the Bavarian firm as a major new player in the region's launch market, according to the French newspaper.
The flight is being hailed as a milestone by other outlets covering the event. Les Echos quoted a company representative as saying Europe has entered a new chapter in its spaceflight history, while Euronews.com noted the launch was the first orbital mission of a private rocket from the continent. Boursorama described the event as a small step for European launchers but a significant leap for Isar Aerospace itself.
