First contracts kick off European Launcher Challenge

Enabling & Support First contracts kick off European Launcher Challenge 27/08/2026 7335 views 31 likes ESA / Enabling & Support / Space Transportation In brief The first contracts for the European Launcher Challenge programme have been signed. The European Space Agency’s initiative expands launch service supply and ensures greater robustness in Europe’s access to space. Following a comprehensive evaluation of each proposal, the contracts kick off the implementation of the European Launcher Challenge, giving companies access to ESA support for the deployment and improvement of new launch services. In-depth The first European Launcher Challenge contracts between the European Space Agency (ESA) and launch service providers have been signed. The European Launcher Challenge is ESA’s initiative to expand European launch service supply and ensure more robustness in Europe’s access to space. The contracts allow the Challengers to secure and unlock funds as milestones are met. Each proposal was reviewed by a European Space Agency evaluation board, looking into the companies’ financial and…