Securing access to space
Independent, autonomous and reliable access to space is essential for Europe’s future in space, ensuring that missions can launch on demand using European-built systems, and that launch capabilities evolve in step with commercial needs, environmental targets and strategic priorities.
ESA’s programme for future space transportation (FLPP) supports this evolution through two dedicated initiatives:
- THRUST! – developing high-performance engines for scalable, sustainable launch systems
- BEST! – advancing modular boosters and reusable first stages
Together, they lay the foundations for a more competitive, flexible and future-ready European launch landscape.
BEST!
Boosters for European Space Transportation
Europe’s ability to launch regularly, affordably and sustainably depends on the continued evolution of its launch systems. BEST! supports that evolution by:
- supporting the development of new launcher architectures
- improving existing launch systems
The programme targets two long-term outcomes:
- significantly improving European competitiveness
- reducing the environmental footprint of space launch activities
Current priorities within BEST! include:
- Developing and validating liquid reusable boosters
- Advancing sustainable launch technologies
- Supporting regular and cost-effective access to space capabilities
THRUST!
Technologies for High-Thrust Reusable Space Transportation
The THRUST! team guides the advancement of liquid propulsion systems and staged combustion engines.
The engines within the THRUST! subprogramme have wide-ranging applications, including:
- Thrust category 500-1500 kN: First stages or boosters of commercial mini/medium-launchers.
- Thrust category > 1500 kN: Propulsion elements of a heavy lift launcher. Serving institutional missions such as exploration, constellations, large space infrastructures and space logistics.
Discover how to participate as an investor, space logistics supplier or space logistics user.
Additional Technological Developments
Alongside BEST! and THRUST!, ESA is developing various supporting technologies that complement and enhance Europe’s capabilities of accessing space. These programmes are outside of the open-competition process.
Phoebus
A carbon-fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) fuel tank demonstrator, Phoebus reduces rocket stage mass and increases payload capacity, using advanced materials to enhance fuel storage and structural integrity.
Prometheus
This low-cost, reusable engine burns methane, reducing launch costs through 3D printing and automated control, promising an economic leap forward in rocket engine manufacturing.
Themis
ESA’s flagship reusable rocket stage, Themis, will enable vertical take-off and landing, demonstrating reusability that could be applied across future launch vehicles.
Sustainable propulsion demonstrators
Multiple projects are working on the maturation of engines using more sustainable and safe liquid propellants, compared to the existing storable propellants used today.
Related Links:
– Vary that thrust: longer hot-fire of rocket engine demonstrator
– Greta rocket engine completes first test campaign
