Committed to boosting European launch services

ESA is extending its commitment to the new generation of commercial-led European launch services through its ‘Boost!’ programme, awarding contract extensions with four companies towards deployment of their launch services.

Several first launches of new rockets are close in Europe. Like a new product launch for startups but with a literal liftoff, the months before an inaugural flight can be critical for companies with large teams, many facilities and operations – but no launch system generating revenue yet.

To alleviate this period ESA has engaged a total of €44.22 million in co-funding – reinforcing ESA’s role in empowering these space launch companies as they transition from technical development to the start of operational services.

“Europe’s emerging commercial launch service providers are pushing towards their first launches,” said ESA’s Director of Space Transportation, Toni Tolker-Nielsen, “we are very interested to see their rockets deliver, diversifying the European launch services on offer.”

Four contract extensions were signed, one each with Hyimpulse, Isar Aerospace, Orbex and Rocket Factory Augsburg. Isar Aerospace, Orbex and Rocket Factory Augsburg (RFA) are all gearing-up for integrated testing of their systems.

Rocket Factory Augsburg have already started conducting integrated tests on their RFA One, however suffered a set-back during first stage testing this summer. The Boost! co-funding will help RFA prepare the next first stage flight hardware for more testing and launch. “RFA is excited about the growing support of Germany and the UK through ESA's Boost! programme, which accelerates our mission to deliver cost-effective, flexible launch solutions. BOOST! is a crucial investment in Europe's future space access, driving competition and innovation across the sector." Jörn Spurmann, Co-founder at Chief Commercial Officer at RFA.

In parallel, Isar Aerospace is conducting the integrated testing of the stages of its Spectrum launch vehicle. The funds of this Boost! contract will be focused on completing their test campaign preparing the rocket’s first test flight. Moreover, ESA's support will follow steps preparing the second test flight of the Spectrum rocket and scaling-up of production facilities at the company’s new headquarters in Vaterstetten, Germany. 

"Given the current political developments, it’s clear Europe must rethink its approach to space access. We’re strongly encouraged by ESA’s focus on commercialization with initiatives like Boost! and the European Launcher Challenge, but this can only be the beginning. To compete globally, institutions and governments must become frequent customers." Stella Guillen, Chief Commercial Officer at Isar Aerospace.

ESA's Boost! contract with Orbex will allow the company to proceed towards the first demonstration flight of its Prime launch vehicle. It covers important steps towards qualifying carbon-fibre fuel tanks and the integrated testing and launch of Prime.

Phil Chambers, Orbex CEO said "We welcome this extension of funding from ESA’s Boost! Programme. This support builds on the 2020 award, advancing the development of our spaceflight systems and helping us move towards the inaugural launch of Orbex Prime next year. These programmes are key to help realise our shared goals.”

HyImpulse successfully launched their suborbital SR75 rocket this year, so activities are now focusing on its SL1 development, a three-stage rocket to take 600 kg to Sun-synchronous orbit. The Boost! co-funding will help advance a significant part of the sub-systems towards integrated testing, such as the SL1-version of their hybrid engine, third stage propulsion systems and avionics systems.

“This contract extension represents a strong vote of confidence in HyImpulse and an investment in Europe’s future as a competitive force in space. With the support of ESA, we will advance the development of our SL1 rocket, delivering a cost-efficient launch solution to address the growing demand for small satellite launches. This is an important step in ensuring Europe’s leadership in scientific, commercial, and strategic missions.” said Christian Schmierer, CEO and founder at HyImpulse.

A programme for Boost!