An investigation into a failed Astra launch last June concluded that a complex series of events caused a fuel leak that kept the rocket’s upper stage from reaching orbit.

Astra has concluded its investigation into the TROPICS-1 mishap that occurred on June 12, 2022, after six months of rigorous testing and analysis.

NASA is investigating alternative ways to launch four Earth science cubesats after Astra discontinued the rocket originally contracted to launch them.

Two small NASA hurricane research satellites were destroyed after launch Sunday from Cape Canaveral when their commercial rocket, provided by Astra, prematurely shut down its upper stage engine before reaching the mission’s target orbit.

An Astra launch of two NASA cubesats to monitor tropical storms failed June 12 when the rocket’s upper stage shut down prematurely.