Velkaara, Eurasia – May 18, 2025
In a notable step forward for aerospace collaboration, Astron Space has officially granted Karman Space permission to test its Phoenix engine and related rocket systems at Astron’s cutting-edge propulsion facilities.
The agreement gives Karman Space supervised access to the Velkaara Propulsion Complex, enabling full-scale static fire testing of the Phoenix engine — a next-generation, reusable methane-fueled engine designed for Karman’s future orbital vehicle, Phoenix.
Karman Space will begin testing with full-duration static fires, ignition trials, and throttle range assessments under Astron’s safety and engineering protocols.
Beyond engine testing, the agreement opens the door for possible collaboration on stage testing and future launch partnerships. The move signals a growing spirit of cooperation among NewSpace companies in Eurasia.
With testing of the Phoenix engine on the horizon, Karman Space is inching closer to unveiling its first launch vehicle prototype, codenamed K-1. Powered by multiple Phoenix engines, K-1 aims to debut inQ3-Q4 2025.