ESA Expands Support for Emerging European Launch Providers with Additional €44.22 Million

The European Space Agency (ESA) is doubling down on its commitment to fostering Europe’s commercial launch sector, announcing an additional €44.22 million ($46.7 million) in funding for four launch vehicle startups. The funding, part of ESA’s “Boost!” program, aims to advance the testing of launch vehicles from HyImpulse, Isar Aerospace, Orbex, and Rocket Factory Augsburg (RFA).

“Europe’s emerging commercial launch service providers are pushing towards their first launches...We are very interested to see their rockets deliver.” - Toni Tolker-Nielsen, ESA’s director of space transportation

Funding Allocations and Development Goals

While ESA did not specify how the funding is divided, the companies revealed details about their respective awards and intended uses:

Isar Aerospace received €15 million to support testing for the first two flights of its Spectrum small launch vehicle. The company previously indicated plans to launch Spectrum before the end of 2024 but has yet to share recent updates.

Orbex secured €5.6 million to further integrated testing of its Orbex Prime microlauncher. "This funding extension will enable us to make the vital next step in our journey as we move towards our inaugural launch of our microlauncher, Orbex Prime, next year,” said Phil Chambers, Orbex’s chief executive.

HyImpulse was granted €11.8 million to continue development of its SL1 orbital launch vehicle, derived from its SR75 sounding rocket. The funding will support work on a hybrid engine, avionics, and a third-stage propulsion system. “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,” said Christian Schmierer, HyImpulse’s chief executive.

Rocket Factory Augsburg (RFA) also received €11.8 million. The funding will be used to rebuild and test a new first stage for its RFA ONE rocket, after the loss of the original during an August static-fire test. “Boost! is a crucial investment in Europe’s future space access, driving competition and innovation across the sector,” said Jörn Spurmann, RFA’s chief commercial officer.

Europe’s Space Access Challenges

The Boost! funding arrives at a pivotal time as Europe grapples with concerns over its space access capabilities. While the inaugural launch of the Ariane 6 in July and the anticipated return of the Vega C in December represent progress, Europe’s heavy reliance on SpaceX’s Falcon 9 for government missions has sparked calls for more self-reliance.

“Given the current political developments, it’s clear Europe must rethink its approach to space access,...To become competitive globally, we need institutions and governments to clearly shift from funding the development to becoming frequent customers.” - Stella Guillen, chief commercial officer of Isar Aerospace

The Boost! program aims to create a competitive and innovative European commercial launch sector, supporting not only technological progress but also Europe’s strategic independence in space access. As the supported startups advance toward their maiden flights, ESA and its partners are betting on a future where Europe plays a more prominent role in the global launch market.