European Space Agency

Work on the project’s first phase began in the second half of 2024 and focused on identifying the technology maturation needs for a reusable upper stage demonstrator. This phase also included an assessment of potential commercial applications for the technology.

On 15 May, ESA published a call for proposals for Phase 2 of the project, which will focus on activities “up to a critical design milestone.” This stage in a project’s development typically signifies that the detailed design is complete and the system is ready to proceed to manufacturing or full-scale implementation. While the call did not provide much additional detail, it does note that Phase 2 will involve early long-lead technology maturation and demonstration activities.