ESA and PLD Space join forces to enhance small satellite launch flexibility

ESA and PLD Space join forces to enhance small satellite launch flexibility
by Erica Marchand
Paris (SPX) Feb 22, 2024

In a significant stride towards expanding Europe's capabilities in the burgeoning small satellite launch market, the European Space Agency (ESA) and PLD Space have inked a deal to co-fund the development of a cutting-edge payload accommodation system. This collaboration is set to enhance the flexibility and competitiveness of satellite deployments, leveraging the advanced capabilities of PLD Space's upcoming Miura 5 launch vehicle.

The partnership between ESA and PLD Space, fortified with a euro 1.3 million co-funding agreement, is focused on the creation of the Modular Solution for Payload Adapter (MOSPA). This innovative system is designed to offer unparalleled flexibility in accommodating a wide variety of satellites, from CubeSats to microsatellites, thereby meeting the diverse needs of researchers and commercial customers alike.

Following the successful inauguration of the suborbital launch vehicle Miura 1 in October 2023, which can carry up to 100 kg to heights of 150 km above Earth, PLD Space is setting its sights higher with the Miura 5. This larger, two-stage rocket aims to deliver up to 540 kg of hardware into sun-synchronous orbit. Notably, Miura 5's first stage is designed for recovery and reuse, a feature that underscores the industry's shift towards sustainable space exploration practices.

The MOSPA system stands at the heart of this ambitious project, promising to revolutionize how satellites are deployed into orbit. By developing hardware that is both lightweight and highly adaptable, PLD Space aims to cater to the evolving demands of the satellite market. This effort is bolstered by the expertise of OCCAM Space, a key partner renowned for its proficiency in space sector structures and mechanisms.

ESA's Jorgen Bru expressed optimism about the collaboration, noting PLD Space's proven track record and the potential of the MOSPA system to elevate market competitiveness. PLD Space's Chief Business Development Officer, Raul Verdu, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the significance of the Boost! contract win with OCCAM Space and its role in validating ESA's confidence in their approach.

Manuel Serrano, CEO of OCCAM Space, emphasized the synergy between the companies and the shared goal of enhancing the competitiveness of European small launchers. This partnership not only marks a milestone in PLD Space's development journey but also signifies a broader effort to fortify Europe's position in the global space industry.

With eyes set on a 2025 first flight from Europe's Spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana, Miura 5 embodies the aspirations of PLD Space, ESA, and their partners to redefine access to space for small satellites. This venture represents a pivotal step in addressing the unique challenges and opportunities presented by the small satellite segment, offering a glimpse into a future where space is more accessible, sustainable, and versatile for a broad array of missions and applications.