# ESA awards launch-development contracts to three European startups

_Thursday, August 27, 2026 at 8:00 PM EDT · Capital, Science · Latest · Tier 2 — Notable_

![ESA awards launch-development contracts to three European startups — Primary](https://cdn.arstechnica.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/European_Launcher_Challenge_launch_service_providers_initial_capacity_pillars-1152x648.png)

The European Space Agency said it signed European Launcher Challenge contracts with Rocket Factory Augsburg, PLD Space and Isar Aerospace to support development and operation of their small launch vehicles. The awards total €186.9 million for RFA One, €158.9 million for Miura 5 and €197.8 million for Spectrum. ESA said a separate contract-award process with MaiaSpace is nearing completion. The agency describes the initiative as a way to expand European launch-service supply and strengthen access to space.

## Sources

- [Ars Technica](https://arstechnica.com/space/2026/08/rocket-report-europe-splashes-some-cash-on-launch-startups-pallas-1-nears-debut/)

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Retrieved: 2026-08-28T14:43:01.935Z
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