After a very slow start, Europe’s reusable rocket program proves signs of life

Europe's Reusable Rocket Program Finally Takes Off After years of delays and setbacks, the European Space Agency (ESA) and its contractors have finally made significant progress in developing a reusable rocket program. This week, ArianeGroup, a France-based aerospace company, announced that it had completed the integration of the Themis vehicle on a launch pad in Sweden. The Themis prototype is designed to test various landing technologies, including low-altitude hop tests, which are crucial for developing a rocket's first stage that can vertically land after an orbital launch. According to ArianeGroup, these tests could start as early as late this year or early next. "This milestone marks the beginning of the 'combined tests,' during which the interface between Themis and the launch pad's mechanical, electrical, and fluid systems will be thoroughly trialed, with the aim of completing a test under cryogenic conditions," said an ArianeGroup spokesperson. "We're excited to finally move forward with this critical phase of development." The ESA has been working on reusable rockets since 2014, but progress has been slow due to technical challenges and funding issues. However, industry experts say that the Themis program represents a significant step forward for Europe's space program. "Reusable rockets are the future of space exploration," said Dr. Maria Zuber, a renowned astrophysicist at MIT. "The ability to launch multiple payloads on a single rocket will revolutionize the way we access space and make it more affordable." The development of reusable rockets has significant cultural implications as well. With private companies like SpaceX leading the charge, governments are under pressure to keep up with innovation. "The European Space Agency needs to show that they can move quickly and efficiently," said Dr. Zuber. "This is a critical moment for Europe's space program, and I'm glad to see them taking steps in the right direction." The Themis program is expected to be a crucial testbed for future reusable rocket development. If successful, it could pave the way for more ambitious projects, including the development of a European reusable launch vehicle. For now, the ESA and its contractors are focused on completing the combined tests and preparing for the next phase of development. As one industry expert noted, "It's about time Europe got back in the game." Background: The ESA has been working on reusable rockets since 2014 as part of its Future Launchers Development program. However, progress has been slow due to technical challenges and funding issues. Current Status: ArianeGroup has completed the integration of the Themis vehicle on a launch pad in Sweden. Low-altitude hop tests could start late this year or early next. Next Developments: The ESA and its contractors will focus on completing the combined tests and preparing for the next phase of development, which includes testing under cryogenic conditions. *Reporting by Arstechnica.*