Introduction

PLD Space has announced an exciting collaboration with Deimos to develop the Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC) system for its upcoming MIURA 5 orbital launcher. This partnership is set to kick off in late 2025, with a vision to significantly enhance the rocket's ability to efficiently and reliably conduct both dedicated and rideshare missions for small payloads. As part of a growing alliance of esteemed partners, Deimos aims to solidify MIURA 5’s standing in the competitive space launch market.

MIURA 5 Overview

The MIURA 5 represents the cutting-edge of PLD Space’s rocket family, boasting a two-stage design specifically engineered for the precise transport of small payloads. The GNC system plays a vital role, ensuring stability and accuracy throughout every mission phase. PLD Space has grand ambitions, planning to execute over 30 missions annually by 2030 from a variety of launch sites, such as the Guiana Space Centre. This agile approach contrasts with traditional heavy-lift vehicles, allowing for customized launch solutions for an expanding range of customers.

Quotes from Leadership

Raul Torres, Co-founder and CEO of PLD Space, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “Deimos' proven expertise strengthens our capability to deliver precise and reliable missions. It offers enhanced flexibility and ensures we meet high standards of safety and performance.” He emphasized that the collaboration aligns perfectly with PLD Space's vision for establishing a robust national and European aerospace sector.

Collaboration Details

The partnership extends beyond just development; Deimos will also play a crucial role in the verification and validation (V&V) of onboard software, further ensuring the integrity and reliability of the GNC system. Deimos CEO Simone Centuori highlighted the importance of this collaboration, saying, “We are proud to integrate our advanced GNC expertise into the MIURA 5 missions, where precision and robustness are essential for success. This collaboration showcases how innovation and seasoned experience can elevate space access for both commercial and scientific endeavors.”

Sustainability Features

One standout feature of MIURA 5 is its commitment to sustainability. The launcher’s design includes a reusable first stage, which will be retrieved from the ocean to facilitate subsequent missions. The rocket utilizes bio-kerosene (bio RP-1) and liquid oxygen (LOX) in its TEPREL-C engines, resulting in reduced carbon emissions and a smaller environmental footprint.

Conclusion

Building on the successes of the MIURA 1 demonstrator — which marked a historic milestone as Europe’s first private rocket launch in 2023 — MIURA 5 represents the next step in PLD Space's mission to innovate and lead in the space launch industry. As the collaboration with Deimos progresses, the aerospace community eagerly anticipates the launch of MIURA 5 and its implications for the future of space exploration and commercial payload delivery.