SvalRak Rocket Launch History and Scientific Missions
SvalRak serves as a critical gateway for atmospheric and space research, providing a unique location for launching sounding rockets—uncrewed rockets designed to carry scientific instruments to high altitudes for short durations. Originally operating under a permit to fire four rockets every two years, the facility has evolved significantly to support international scientific collaboration.
By 2004, the site had seen 41 rocket launches, reaching a peak apogee (the highest point in a flight path) of 1,108 kilometers (688 mi). To maintain its capabilities and support modern research needs, the site underwent a comprehensive upgrade in 2018.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Key Facts
- Peak Altitude: The highest recorded launch reached 1,108 km.
- Launch Volume: 41 rockets were launched by the year 2004.
- Primary Research Areas: Missions focused on the ionosphere, aeronomy (the study of the upper atmosphere), and plasma.
- Major Partners: Launches were conducted by agencies including NDRE, NASA, DLR, ISAS, and Swedish entities.
- Infrastructure: The facility received a significant upgrade in 2018.
Mission Analysis and Vehicle Performance
The launch history of SvalRak reveals a diverse array of vehicles tailored to specific scientific goals. Early missions in 1997 focused on the ionosphere and aeronomy using the RH-300 Mk II and Viper 3A, while NASA utilized Black Brant IX rockets to study plasma at altitudes exceeding 400 km.
The ROMA Aeronomy Campaigns
One of the most intensive periods of activity occurred in 2001, dominated by the ROMA Aeronomy missions conducted by the DLR (German Aerospace Center). Using the Viper 3A vehicle, a series of dozens of launches were executed between July and September 2001, consistently reaching an apogee of 100 km to study the upper atmosphere.
High-Altitude and Specialized Missions
Beyond the routine aeronomy flights, SvalRak has hosted high-altitude missions. The ISAS SS-520 rocket achieved the site's record altitude of 1,108 km in December 2000. Additionally, NASA's Black Brant 10CM1 missions in 2002 and 2004 pushed boundaries in plasma research, reaching altitudes of 772 km and 790 km respectively.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Launch Summary Table
| Agency | Vehicle Type | Primary Mission Focus | Max Apogee (km) |
|---|---|---|---|
| NDRE | RH-300 Mk II / Viper 3A | Ionosphere & Aeronomy | 97 |
| NASA | Black Brant IX / 10CM1 | Plasma | 790 |
| ISAS | SS-520 | Ionosphere | 1,108 |
| DLR | Viper 3A / Improved Orion | ROMA Aeronomy | 108 |
| Sweden | VS-30 / Orion | ICI Missions | 354 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the highest altitude reached by a rocket from SvalRak?
The highest altitude recorded was 1,108 kilometers (688 mi), achieved by an SS-520 rocket launched by ISAS on December 4, 2000.
Which agency conducted the most frequent launches in 2001?
The DLR (German Aerospace Center) conducted the most frequent launches in 2001, specifically for the ROMA Aeronomy missions using Viper 3A vehicles.
What scientific fields are primarily studied at SvalRak?
The missions primarily focus on the ionosphere, plasma research, and aeronomy, which is the study of the chemical and physical properties of the upper atmosphere.
Were there any failed launches at the site?
Yes, a Nike Improved Orion launch conducted by NDRE on November 28, 2003, is recorded as a failure, reaching an altitude of only 12 km.
When was the SvalRak site last upgraded?
The site was upgraded in 2018 to improve its launch capabilities.