ESA Takes Major Step Towards Reusable Rocket Tech
The European Space Agency (ESA) has taken a significant step towards reusable rocket technology. ESA and ArianeGroup have joined forces to develop a reusable upper stage, a project worth 40 million euros (approximately $47 million U.S.).
The two-year contract aims to prepare for an in-flight demonstration of a reusable upper stage. This follows SpaceX's successful strides in reusability with its Falcon 9 and Falcon Heavy vehicles. ESA has posted a rendering on its X platform that resembles SpaceX's Starship megarocket upper stage, hinting at the potential design.
ESA's Director of Space Transportation, Toni Tolker-Nielsen, emphasized the contract's importance for both short-term technological advancements and Europe's long-term future in space. The project is part of ESA's European Launcher Challenge, promoting new rocket development and boosting Europe's access to space. The reusable upper stage could be used on future Vega rockets or other European rockets, expanding ESA's capabilities.
ESA is not alone in exploring reusable rocket upper stages. Other space actors, such as China, are also investigating this technology. Additionally, ESA is working on a reusable space plane called Space Rider. With this new project, ESA continues to push the boundaries of space exploration and maintain its competitive edge in the global space race.
