ESA Explains Why MaiaSpace Launcher Contract Signing Is Delayed

At a glance

The European Space Agency (ESA) has explained why its contract with the private rocket company MaiaSpace has not yet been signed. Unlike the other companies, MaiaSpace chose support through launch service contracts instead of technology development. That choice made the talks more complicated.

Key points

1. 1

   At an ESA briefing on October 22, the agency said MaiaSpace was the only company to choose launch-service support.

2. 2

   The European Launcher Challenge funds are split into Component A, which subsidises launch services, and Component B, which helps develop technology.

3. 3

   MaiaSpace secured €183.4 million in commitments, all under Component A.

4. 4

   ESA signed contracts with the other three companies on August 27, but has not publicly announced the MaiaSpace signing.

Why it matters

This is a large European program meant to build the continent's own launch capability, so a delayed contract matters.