German rocket reaches space as Europe enters satellite launch race

German start-up Isar Aerospace launched its first rocket into space from a spaceport in Arctic Norway on Saturday, marking the first commercial flight to reach orbit from continental Europe. The uncrewed Spectrum rocket carried five small satellites and an in-flight technological experiment. The launch was hailed as a breakthrough for the European launch industry, with Norway's trade and industry minister Cecilie Myrseth stating that it strengthens Norwegian and European security in turbulent times. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz visited Isar's launch site in March, underscoring Europe's efforts to establish greater autonomy amid shifting global order under US President Donald Trump. Isar Aerospace plans to offer commercial satellite launch services, aiming to give Europe better access to space and a share of the growing market for space missions.