France Invests in MaiaSpace for Reusable Rocket Development
France supports MaiaSpace's development of a reusable mini-launcher to enhance European space capabilities.
Key Points
- • French government to announce financial support for MaiaSpace.
- • The Maia rocket will create 160 new jobs and is set for a 2027 launch.
- • Maia rocket can carry up to 4 tons to low Earth orbit, reusable up to five times.
- • Emmanuel Macron emphasizes boosting European sovereign access to space.
France is making significant strides in revitalizing its space capabilities through an initiative with MaiaSpace, a startup jointly founded by Airbus and Safran in 2021. The French government plans to provide substantial financial support for MaiaSpace’s efforts to develop the Maia rocket, a reusable mini-launch vehicle. This initiative aims to strengthen Europe's position in the global space launch market, particularly in light of competition from companies like SpaceX.
At a scheduled visit to the ArianeGroup's facility in Vernon, French government ministers will announce the specifics of this support, which includes an investment initially set at €125 million under France's 2030 plan, although further amounts are anticipated. The MaiaFactory, dedicated to producing the Maia rocket, is expected to create 160 new jobs and commence operations in 2027.
The Maia rocket will feature a unique design, incorporating a reusable first stage equipped with three Prometheus engines, each delivering 100 tons of thrust. It aims to transport payloads between 500 kg and 4 tons into low Earth orbit, positioning MaiaSpace as a competitive player in the European mini-launcher market alongside Isar Aerospace and Orbex.
This development is particularly critical as Europe currently trails behind SpaceX, which is projected to carry out 180 launches of its Falcon 9 rocket in 2025, compared to only ten anticipated launches of the existing non-reusable Ariane 6. Emmanuel Macron's government emphasizes the strategic importance of developing reusability in launch technology, crucial for both civilian and military purposes such as satellite deployment and climate research.
Furthermore, MaiaSpace has already secured its first commercial contract with Exotrail, aimed at enhancing satellite logistics in space. The first projected launch of the Maia rocket is anticipated to occur between 2026 and 2027. This initiative not only showcases the French government's commitment to fostering a robust national space industry but also aims to boost the European spaceport at Kourou, potentially establishing it as the continent’s leading launch hub.