PLD Space, the leading Spanish company in the aerospace industry, has revealed its ambitious strategic plan during the Beyond_ event, held at its new production headquarters in Elche. In this framework, the company has presented MIURA Next, its new family of reusable launchers designed to compete in the global space transport market. This announcement coincides with the first anniversary of the successful launch of MIURA 1, Spain’s first suborbital rocket, which consolidated the company as a leader in the European space launcher industry.
Presentation of technological advances in BEYOND_ 2024. Source: PLD SPACE
MIURA Next: a new step towards the future
During the day, the progress of the MIURA 5 program was announced, whose launch campaign will begin in 2025, consolidating PLD as a leader in the development of reusable rockets and other space projects.
One of the main announcements was the new family of reusable launchers, called MIURA Next , which will be able to transport up to 53 tons into orbit . These vehicles are designed to cover 100% of space transportation needs, and their first flight is planned for 2030.
In addition, PLD has presented MIURA Next Heavy and Super Heavy, higher-capacity rockets that will allow loads to be placed on the Moon and Mars , opening up new opportunities in space exploration.
LINCE: the first private manned capsule in Europe
Among the most notable developments is LINCE, the first manned capsule designed and manufactured by a private company in Europe . This project will allow the company to offer a unique human transport capacity on the continent. The first tests of this capsule are expected to begin in 2025, and in 2028 it will make its first test flight with the MIURA 5 rocket.
The TEPREL-C engine, which is the core of the MIURA 5 launcher, was another of the key points of the presentation. This liquid-fuel engine, developed 100% by PLD, stands out for its reliability and efficiency, making the company one of the few capable of competing globally in this field. In addition, the new version of MIURA 5 will include a reentry and recovery system , optimizing operating costs and increasing the frequency of launches.
To ensure its growth, the company has opened a new production plant in Elche , with the capacity to manufacture six MIURA 5 launchers per year. This innovative facility has been designed with a focus on sustainability, incorporating the highest standards of precision and automation.
With over €596 million in commercial interest, PLD Space has secured its place on the global space launch scene. The first commercial flights of the MIURA 5 are expected to begin in 2026 , positioning the company as a key player in global space transportation.
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Source and photos: PLD Space