Europe's space industry is considering a major overhaul of the Ariane 6 rocket. The European Space Agency (ESA) is exploring options to retrofit the existing design. This move aims to address concerns about the rocket's expendable nature.

The proposal involves transforming Ariane 6 into a partially reusable launch vehicle. ESA is already investing in reusable rocket technologies. Funding is being directed towards emerging rocket companies and vertical takeoff/vertical landing demonstrations. These efforts are currently fragmented.

The retrofit could significantly alter Europe's space launch capabilities. It signals a shift towards sustainable and cost-effective space access. The immediate response from industry stakeholders is mixed, pending further details on the plan's feasibility and funding.

Ariane 6 was designed as a successor to the Ariane 5. It aimed to provide independent access to space for Europe. However, its design still relies on expendable rocket technology. This approach is increasingly seen as outdated compared to reusable systems.

ESA will likely conduct feasibility studies and solicit proposals for the Ariane 6 retrofit. The future of European space launch may depend on the success of this ambitious project.