Environmentalists urge transparency after Norway rocket crash endangers Arctic
A German research rocket is seen on the launch pad before takeoff. The rocket later collapsed in Norway, drawing international attention and raising questions about the mission's safety protocols.(AA Photo)
The leader of a Norwegian environmental group says the response to a German rocket crash at Andoya Spaceport lacked transparency and raised unanswered questions.
The Spectrum rocket, built by Germany’s Isar Aerospace, crashed moments after launching from Andoya Spaceport on March 30, sparking criticism from local fishermen and politicians. Nevertheless, the company labeled the mission a “success,” insisting it had the situation under control.
However, Ruben Oddekalv, leader of the Norwegian Society for the Conservation of Nature (NMF), disagrees, claiming that important information has been concealed and calling the launch a success is misleading.
“We very seldom see real transparency…there are always things that are hidden. There is always information that is not shown,” Oddekalv told Anadolu.
“So yes, we had a little spill of debris. We had a little spill of lubricants and stuff. But it’s not that bad. But in reality, very often we see that the reality is worse than what is painted to the picture,” he added.
Arctic ecosystem is under risk
Oddekalv highlighted that the Andoya Spaceport’s Arctic location worsens the environmental effects of such events.
It’s a very vulnerable area because it’s so high north, so everything is more vulnerable to pollution,” he added.
