Latest news with #PLDSpace
Yahoo
21-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
ESA selects 5 rocket companies for European Launcher Challenge
When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. The European Space Agency (ESA) has taken a step toward diversifying its access to space. ESA has chosen five rocket companies to pass through to the next round of its competition to encourage and support the development of new launch vehicles. The agency announced on July 7 that it had selected German companies Isar Aerospace and Rocket Factory Augsburg (RFA), Maiaspace from France, Spain's PLD Space and Orbital Express Launch, or Orbex, which is based in the United Kingdom, to proceed to the next stage of its European Launcher Challenge. The European Launcher Challenge (ELC) is a new scheme to promote new small and medium-sized launch vehicles and boost competitiveness in Europe, which for decades has relied on large Ariane rockets. The challenge was announced in November 2023, followed by a request for information and a formal call for proposals in March 2025, leading to ESA announcing the preselected challengers. The ELC has two components. The first is for launch services to be performed for ESA from 2026 to 2030, while the second is for development and demonstration of larger, upgraded launchers. Each chosen company will be eligible for up to 169 million euros ($198 million US) in support to cover one or both of these components. The ESA member states will finalize funding decisions in November at the agency's crucial ministerial council, which will set funding for projects for the next three years. Both Isar Aerospace and RFA have made it to the pad already. Isar's Spectrum rocket had a first, short-lived flight in March from Norway, with the launcher exploding seconds in flight. RFA's RFA One rocket exploded on the pad in the Shetland Islands back in August 2024 during a static fire test. RELATED STORIES — European Space Agency: Facts & information — Spanish company PLD Space launches rocket for 1st time — Scottish rocket startup Skyrora fails on 1st space launch attempt PLD Space conducted a suborbital flight of its Miura 1 rocket in 2023, as a stepping stone toward launching the orbital Miura 5. Orbex, meanwhile, is working on its Prime microlauncher, while Maiaspace is developing its reusable Maia rocket. These are not the only European companies engaged in developing new rockets, with Skyrora (U.K.), Latitude (France) and HyImpulse (Germany) at various stages of developing their rocket concepts. Solve the daily Crossword
Zawya
14-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
PLD Space unveils the advanced industrialization plan for MIURA 5 and MIURA Next to its network of strategic partners
More than 100 representatives from PLD Space's national and international supply chain have participated in the Industry Days event held at the company's headquarters in Elche The company is executing this industrial flagship program with an investment of €50 million between 2024 and the first half of 2025, currently supported by an ecosystem of 397 key suppliers PLD Space has provided its collaborators with details on its integrated industrial model, the transition to serial production of MIURA 5, the initial development phases of MIURA Next, and the new infrastructure that will underpin its ambitious technological roadmap Elche (Spain). PLD Space, an international space services company with vertical integrated engineering and manufacturing, hosted the MIURA 5 Industry Days at its headquarters, a strategic event that brought together over 100 representatives from its supply chain across Spain and abroad. The goal: to share the advanced industrialization plan for MIURA 5 and MIURA Next, which will consolidate PLD Space's position as a European leader in access to space. During the event, PLD Space strengthened collaboration with its strategic national and international value chain, committed to the success of the MIURA program. 'The key to our business is providing reliable and scalable launch services with a clear market focus. To achieve this, we are forging strong, long-term alliances with our network of industrial partners' said Ezequiel Sánchez, Executive President of PLD Space. PLD Space detailed its manufacturing model based on a vertically integrated approach unique in Europe. The company designs, manufactures, tests, and operates all key subsystems of its launch vehicles internally within its own industrial, testing, and launch facilities. This industrial model enables PLD Space to ensure maximum technological reliability, control costs and timelines, and minimize risks in a highly competitive market. This strategy positions the MIURA program as a driving force for industry in Spain and Europe, as evidenced by its preselection by ESA for the European Launcher Challenge (ELC) last week. This strategic initiative, with funding of up to €169 million per company, represents a national opportunity to establish a Spanish leader energizing the launcher sector, supported by an integrated value chain currently comprising 397 key partners, predominantly located in Spain and Europe. A robust supply chain to lead satellite launches into space To meet the milestones of its roadmap, PLD Space is working to consolidate its global supplier network. Between 2024 and the first half of 2025, total investment in the MIURA 5 supply chain reached €50 million. "We are building relationships with our ecosystem of partners based on operational excellence and delivery at a competitive level in terms of timeframes and cost—unprecedented in Europe—without compromising the reliability of our rockets," Sánchez emphasised. From pre-series manufacturing to the goal of 32 MIURA 5 launchers per year by 2030 During the event, the company explained to its network of partners the transition to the serial production phase of MIURA 5. Following the success of the MIURA 1 demonstrator, which positioned PLD Space as the first private European company to launch a rocket into space on its first attempt, the company is advancing the development of the initial units of MIURA 5, set to fly from the European Spaceport CSG in Kourou (French Guiana), owned by CNES, starting in 2026. PLD Space's industrialization plan outlines a progression to reach 32 annual units of MIURA 5 by 2030. The company will go through an intermediate phase of semi-serial manufacturing of this vehicle before scaling up to full-scale production, scheduled for 2027. In parallel, it will begin manufacturing the first units of its MIURA Next launcher, capable of placing up to 13 tons into orbit. "Launch cadence and reliability are the keys to leadership. To ensure this, we have designed MIURA Next based on MIURA 5 technologies, following the same strategy as between MIURA 1 and MIURA 5. This way, our methods for producing engines, structures, or avionics are applicable to any launcher in our MIURA family, allowing us to scale and maintain production cadence at a fraction of the cost of current operators," highlighted Raúl Verdú, Co-Founder and Chief Business Development Officer of PLD Space. Additionally, to realize this vision, PLD Space plans to expand its manufacturing, testing, and launch infrastructure to support the serial production of MIURA 5, initiate production of MIURA Next, and develop the LINCE crewed capsule. About PLD Space PLD Space is an international company dedicated to transporting satellites and people into space, vertically integrating the engineering, testing, manufacturing, and operations of its reusable and sustainable rockets. Headquartered in Elche (Spain) and founded in 2011 by Raúl Torres and Raúl Verdú, PLD Space has established itself as a global benchmark in the small satellite launch sector. Its family of MIURA launchers and LINCE crewed capsule position the company as a leader in European technological sovereignty for space transportation, covering the full spectrum of space missions. With a team of more than 350 employees, PLD Space operates over 188,000 m² of facilities in Elche, Teruel (Spain), Kourou (French Guiana), and Duqm (Oman), enabling it to provide comprehensive satellite and payload launch services into space.
Sustainability Times
09-07-2025
- Science
- Sustainability Times
'SpaceX Fears for Its Survival!': China's Private Rocket Company Stuns the World With Reusable Launch, Threatening to Eclipse Musk's Entire Space Empire
IN A NUTSHELL 🚀 Space Epoch successfully tested its reusable rocket, Yuanxingzhe-1, marking a major milestone in China's space exploration. successfully tested its reusable rocket, Yuanxingzhe-1, marking a major milestone in China's space exploration. 🌌 The test utilized Vertical Takeoff, Vertical Landing (VTVL) technology, similar to SpaceX's Falcon 9 and Starship. technology, similar to SpaceX's Falcon 9 and Starship. 🇪🇺 Europe is making progress with reusable rocket technology, highlighted by the success of PLD Space's Miura 1 rocket. rocket. 🌍 China's advancements in reusable rockets could democratize space access, fostering innovation and international collaboration. In recent years, the global space race has taken a surprising turn as China makes significant strides in its space exploration capabilities. One noteworthy development is the successful test by Space Epoch, a Beijing-based company, of its reusable rocket, the Yuanxingzhe-1. This achievement signals a major milestone in China's ambitious space endeavors, which include goals in space tourism, orbital infrastructure, and lunar and Martian exploration. China's commitment to mastering reusable rocket technology, akin to that of SpaceX in the United States, is paving the way for a new era in space exploration. The Same Technique as SpaceX The groundbreaking test conducted by Space Epoch occurred on May 29, at the China Maritime Space Launch Center, located off the coast of Shandong province. The test involved the use of Vertical Takeoff, Vertical Landing (VTVL) technology, a method pioneered by SpaceX with its Falcon 9 and more recently with Starship. This technique allows rockets to descend vertically using their own engines to slow and stabilize their descent, ultimately achieving a controlled landing. During the test, the Yuanxingzhe-1 rocket completed a 125-second flight. After a vertical takeoff, it reached an altitude of approximately 8,202 feet. At the peak of its trajectory, the rocket's engines temporarily shut off before reigniting to initiate a controlled descent. This maneuver enabled the rocket to slow and stabilize its return, culminating in a water landing in the Yellow Sea, as depicted in a video shared by Space Epoch on its WeChat account. Space Epoch hailed this test as a 'major breakthrough' in developing reusable liquid-fueled rockets. 'China Achieves Unthinkable Feat': This Bold Extraction of 99.9% Ultra-Pure Rubidium from Salt Lake Brine Stuns the World Where Does Europe Stand? The ability to reuse rockets is a crucial factor in reducing launch costs, making space missions more economically viable and accessible. This approach potentially increases the frequency of launches and facilitates the entry of diverse players into the space market. In this regard, Europe is striving to catch up but is making progress toward this ultimate goal. On October 7, 2023, the Spanish startup PLD Space achieved a significant milestone with its Miura 1 rocket, which reached a maximum altitude of 46 kilometers (approximately 28.6 miles). The rocket was successfully recovered in the Atlantic Ocean after a controlled landing. This marked the first European rocket designed for reusability to be launched, recovered, and proven capable of flying again. Meanwhile, other Chinese companies, such as LandScape, are also diligently working on similar technologies. Last year, LandScape successfully executed the first in-flight relighting of a Chinese rocket engine during descent, a technique now mastered by Space Epoch. Both companies plan to conduct their first orbital flights this year. 'China Fires Nine-Engine Monster': This Reusable Rocket Just Shook SpaceX's Dominance in a Way No One Expected Implications for the Global Space Industry The advancements in reusable rocket technology have profound implications for the global space industry. By significantly reducing the cost of launches, this technology democratizes access to space, allowing smaller companies and nations to participate in space exploration and research. It can lead to an increase in commercial space ventures, such as satellite deployment and space tourism, which could have a substantial economic impact. Moreover, the competition between nations and private companies to develop reusable rockets fosters innovation and accelerates technological advancements. This environment of competition and collaboration is likely to produce new breakthroughs in space travel and exploration, ultimately benefiting humanity's understanding of the universe. 'China Shatters Global Energy Records': Historic Surge in Solar and Wind Power Redefines the Future of Clean Electricity China's Role in the New Space Age China's commitment to developing reusable rocket technology underscores its determination to become a major player in the space industry. With the successful test of the Yuanxingzhe-1, China demonstrates its capability to rival established space-faring nations. The country's ambitious plans for space tourism, orbital infrastructure, and lunar and Martian exploration indicate its desire to expand its influence beyond Earth. As China continues to invest in its space capabilities, it is poised to contribute significantly to scientific research and exploration. The growing collaboration between China and other countries in space endeavors could lead to new international partnerships and opportunities for shared advancements in space technology. In a rapidly evolving space landscape, China's achievements in reusable rocket technology mark a pivotal moment in the global space race. As more nations and companies develop and refine their capabilities, the future of space exploration holds endless possibilities. What new frontiers will humanity explore next as we continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in space? This article is based on verified sources and supported by editorial technologies. Did you like it? 4.6/5 (22)
Zawya
07-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
PLD Space preselected by ESA for the European Launcher Challenge
Funded with €169 million, the ELC is one of the largest space contracts ever involving Spain and will be awarded following ESA's Ministerial Conference in November PLD Space's proposal, fully aligned with its technological roadmap presented in October 2024, includes the MIURA 5 and its future large reusable launcher, MIURA Next Elche (Spain). PLD Space, an international space services company with vertical integrated engineering and manufacturing, has been preselected by the European Space Agency (ESA) to participate in the European Launcher Challenge (ELC), the largest European program aimed at fostering new sovereign launch capabilities on the continent. ESA officially launched the ELC this year as a strategic initiative that will award up to €169 million per company in its final phase. The program is structured in two components: contracts for launch services of ESA institutional missions between 2026 and 2030, and a development track requiring a demonstration of enhanced launch capacity by 2028. The final selection of companies will be announced at ESA's Ministerial Conference to be held in Bremen this November. A proposal fully aligned with PLD Space's technological roadmap PLD Space formally submitted its proposal to the European Launcher Challenge with a plan that perfectly aligns with its technological roadmap through 2030, which the company publicly presented on October 7, 2024 during its Beyond event—prior to ESA's announcement of the challenge. In this context, PLD Space has positioned the MIURA 5 as the first operational element of the program, and its future large reusable launcher, MIURA Next, as the second pillar to address Europe's institutional needs and ensure competitive, sustainable access to space. An industrial driving force for Europe and for Spain The MIURA program is a clear industrial driving force. Through ESA's preselection for the ELC, PLD Space represents a unique opportunity for Spain to have a national prime leading the launcher industry, with a value chain made up of 397 partners, largely anchored in Spain and across Europe. Moreover, the ELC exemplifies a new model of public-private collaboration in Europe, similar to what is already underway in Spain with the Aerospace PERTE program, under which the government—through CDTI—has awarded PLD Space €42 million to develop the country's first national launcher. ' The European Launcher Challenge marks a milestone for Europe's space industry, but it is also a unique national opportunity to have a Spanish prime leading launcher development. Our project directly impacts the entire value chain, mobilizes cutting-edge technology, and places Spain at the center of Europe's future access to space,' said Ezequiel Sánchez, Executive President of PLD Space. About PLD Space PLD Space is an international space services company with its own engineering and manufacturing. It is dedicated to transporting satellites and people to space, vertically integrating the engineering, testing, manufacturing, and operations of its reusable and sustainable rockets. Headquartered in Elche (Spain) and founded in 2011 by Raúl Torres and Raúl Verdú, PLD Space has established itself as a benchmark in the space launcher sector globally. Its MIURA family of launchers and its LINCE manned capsule position the company as a leader in European technological sovereignty in space transport, covering the entire range of space missions. With a team of more than 300 employees and more than 12,500 m² dedicated to advanced manufacturing, PLD Space manages facilities in Teruel, Kourou (French Guiana) and Duqm (Oman), allowing it to offer complete satellite launch services and other payloads to space. For more information: Maria Climent, Head of Communication at PLD Space Burson
Zawya
03-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
PLD Space and D-Orbit sign launch agreement for equatorial missions
D-Orbit will launch various payloads aboard MIURA 5, including its flagship ION Orbital Transfer Vehicle (OTV). The contract ensures continued access to flexible and efficient launch solutions tailored to the evolving needs of satellite operators worldwide. With this agreement, PLD Space has now fulfilled more than 80% of the slots in its manifest until 2027. Elche (Spain): PLD Space, an international space services company with vertical integrated engineering and manufacturing, has signed an agreement with D-Orbit, a global leader in space logistics and orbital transportation, to deploy satellites aboard MIURA 5 to equatorial orbit. With this, PLD Space has now fulfilled more than 80% of the slots in its manifest until 2027. With investment in space accelerating at an unprecedented rate -particularly in Southeast Asia and other geographies situated near the equator- PLD Space and D-Orbit are well positioned to capitalize on this growth. MIURA 5, launching from its strategic site at the CSG (Kourou, French Guiana), provides one of the few dedicated low-inclination launch opportunities available, offering customers direct access to equatorial orbits. This differentiates PLD Space from other major providers, whose standard offerings for many seeking access to space do not include this service. Currently, the niche is primarily served by one or two launch vehicles offering very low cadences, underscoring the importance of PLD Space's entry into this underserved market. Through this agreement, D-Orbit will fly payloads aboard MIURA 5, including its flagship ION Orbital Transfer Vehicle (OTV). D-Orbit provides logistics services to the space sector, including in-orbit satellite transportation with individual deployment into specific orbital slots, as well as in-space testing of hosted payloads. The company also offers satellite operators in-orbit storage and advanced computing capabilities. As the market leader in in-space logistics, D-Orbit has successfully deployed satellites into precise orbits through 17 ION missions to date. The contract with PLD Space ensures continued access to flexible and efficient launch solutions tailored to the evolving needs of satellite operators worldwide. 'From our launch complex in Kourou, French Guiana, and Duqm, Oman, we offer one of the widest ranges of orbital inclinators providing our customers with a significant competitive advantage,' said Raúl Verdú, CBDO and Co-founder at PLD Space. 'The agreement with D-Orbit strengthens our position as a leader, especially in markets that require reliable equatorial access, a capability that remains extremely limited in today's industry.' 'Working with PLD Space will allow us to expand our launch offering to equatorial missions, an option that is becoming increasingly interesting for our customers, enabling us to better meet their evolving needs while building a promising collaboration with PLD Space,' commented Matteo Lorenzoni, VP Commercial Strategy of D-Orbit. PLD Space is currently ramping-up the serial production for MIURA 5 units using the flight proven technology coming from MIURA 1, with the aim of starting its test flight campaign by the end of 2025. Commercial flights of MIURA 5 will begin in 2026 with the objective of scaling up to 30 launches per year by 2030. About PLD Space PLD Space is an international space services company with its own engineering and manufacturing. It is dedicated to transporting satellites and people to space, vertically integrating the engineering, testing, manufacturing, and operations of its reusable and sustainable rockets. Headquartered in Elche (Spain) and founded in 2011 by Raúl Torres and Raúl Verdú, PLD Space has established itself as a benchmark in the space launcher sector globally. Its MIURA family of launchers and its LINCE manned capsule position the company as a leader in European technological sovereignty in space transport, covering the entire range of space missions. With a team of more than 300 employees and more than 12,500 m² dedicated to advanced manufacturing, PLD Space manages facilities in Teruel, Kourou (French Guiana) and Duqm (Oman), allowing it to offer complete satellite launch services and other payloads to space. For more information: María Climent, Communications Manager at PLD Burson
