Firefly achieves success in second attempt at orbital launch

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Firefly Aerospace

Firefly Aerospace has successfully launched its Alpha rocket for the first time ever, delivering three small satellites, with all payloads reaching the intended orbit.  

The rocket took off at 3:01 AM EDT (7:01 GMT) October 1, 2022, from Space Launch Complex 2 at Vandenberg Space Force Base, California, United States 

It marked the second attempt for Firefly, after its first launch, conducted in September 2021, ended with the rocket exploding mid-air.  

The company announced the success shortly after the take-off, later tweeting that all payloads had reached their orbits.  

The launch was originally slated to take place in early September 2022 but was delayed several times due to technical problems and adverse weather.  

Founded in 2017, Firefly aims to enter the small satellite launch market with the Alpha, a two-stage expendable rocket that can lift 1,170 kilograms (2,580 pounds) to low Earth orbit. 

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