Alpha Flight 7 will test and validate key systems ahead of Firefly’s Block II configuration upgrade on Flight 8 that’s designed to enhance reliability and manufacturability across the vehicle.
The Block II configuration includes a 7-foot increase to Alpha’s length, consolidated batteries and avionics built in house, an enhanced thermal protection system, and stronger carbon composite structures built with automated machinery.
Flight 7 will be the last flown in Alpha’s current configuration and will test multiple Block II subsystems, including the in-house avionics and thermal improvements, to gain flight heritage and validate lessons learned ahead of the full configuration upgrade on Flight 8.
Out of an abundance of caution, Firefly made the decision to stand down on today’s Alpha Flight 7 test flight to investigate a sensor reading that was out of range. Once verification is complete, the team will work with @SLDelta30
to confirm our next available launch date. Stay tuned for more information.