Alpha

Company: Firefly Aerospace

The American business Firefly Aerospace developed Firefly Alpha (Firefly α), a two-stage orbital expendable launch vehicle, to compete in the small satellite launch market for commercial use. Alpha is designed to give consumers who rideshare as well as those who own full vehicles launch alternatives.On September 3, 2021, there was an initial attempt at launch; however, during ascent, one of the first stage engines failed, preventing the spacecraft from reaching orbit.On October 1, 2022, a second orbital test flight was conducted and it was successful in reaching orbit.Seven satellites were launched by Alpha; however, a week after launch, the majority of the satellites re-entered the atmosphere due to a lower than planned deployment orbit.September 15, 2023, saw the first launch of Alpha that was completely successful.