Introduction
PLD Space is a Spanish company dedicated to the development of reusable launch vehicles. The company aims to provide commercial access to space for small satellites and payloads. Established in 2011, PLD Space is focused on creating cost-effective and reliable launch solutions.
List of Launch Vehicle
Miura 1
- Miura 1 is a suborbital reusable launch vehicle designed for microgravity research and technology development. It serves as a testbed for technologies that will be used in the Miura 5 orbital launcher. Miura 1 is capable of carrying payloads up to 100 kg to an altitude of 150 km.
Miura 5
- Miura 5 is an orbital launch vehicle designed for small satellite launches. It is intended to provide reliable and cost-effective access to space for payloads up to 300 kg to Sun-synchronous orbit (SSO). Miura 5 is designed to be partially reusable, with its first stage capable of being recovered and refurbished for multiple flights.
Services
- Suborbital Flights: PLD Space offers suborbital flight services using the Miura 1 vehicle, allowing customers to conduct microgravity experiments and test technologies in space-like conditions.
- Orbital Launches: The company provides orbital launch services with the Miura 5 vehicle, targeting small satellite operators looking to deploy their payloads into low Earth orbit (LEO).
- Payload Integration: PLD Space offers comprehensive payload integration services, ensuring that customer payloads are safely and efficiently integrated with the launch vehicle.
- Custom Missions: PLD Space can tailor missions to meet specific customer requirements, offering flexibility in terms of launch windows, orbits, and payload configurations.
Financial Situation
As of the latest update, PLD Space has successfully secured funding through various rounds of investment. The company has received financial support from both public and private sectors, including grants from the European Space Agency (ESA) and investment from venture capital firms. This financial backing has enabled PLD Space to advance the development of its Miura 1 and Miura 5 launch vehicles and move closer to its goal of providing commercial launch services. The company continues to seek additional funding to further its technological advancements and expand its service offerings.