Norway and Germany Strengthen Cooperation in Space Activities

– Germany is one of our most important strategic partners, both in space and in many other policy areas. This declaration is a crucial step before Isar Aerospace can launch its first satellite from Andøya, which could also become the first satellite launch from Europe ever, says Minister of Trade and Industry Cecilie Myrseth (Ap).

Andøya Spaceport has entered into a multi-year agreement with German company Isar Aerospace, which will use the base to launch satellites into space with the Spectrum rocket. They are currently preparing the launch pad and expect to conduct their first launch in the second half of 2024.

– Andøya can become central to European space activities in the coming years. The combination of a favorable geographical location and a world-class competence environment makes Andøya Spaceport an excellent place to launch satellites. This can be of great value both for Norway and Europe, says Minister Myrseth.

Both Norway and Germany have signed international conventions that regulate the countries’ activities in space. According to these conventions, the countries have obligations related to, among other things, the registration of objects launched into space and financial liability in case of accidents. To clarify these responsibilities, Norway and Germany have negotiated a joint declaration: “Joint Declaration of Common Understanding on the Imminent Launches of German Launchers from Andøya Spaceport.” The declaration was signed by Minister of Trade and Industry Cecilie Myrseth and Germany’s Ambassador to Norway, Detlef Wächter, on June 19.

– When German rockets and satellites are launched from Norwegian soil, it is important to clarify which country has the responsibility. The declaration we signed ensures that Norwegian and German authorities have a common understanding of the international legal division of responsibilities, says the Minister.

Background on Andøya Spaceport:

In 2021, the Norwegian government granted Andøya Space AS up to 365 million NOK in state funding to establish a spaceport at Andøya – Andøya Spaceport. The spaceport at Andøya was formally opened by H.R.H. The Crown Prince on November 2, 2023. Andøya Spaceport will provide infrastructure and support services to international satellite launch providers.