SPACE X
Rockets in the age of “NewSpace” and the “Space Race 2.0”
Modern space travel has been undergoing profound change since 2002. At the heart of this development are rockets, which contribute significantly to the commercialization and acceleration of space travel through innovations in technology, production and reusability.
- In operation since 2009, over 400 successful flights, 134 of which in 2024 alone.
- In operation since 2009, over 400 successful flights, 134 of which in 2024 alone.
- Cost per launch: USD 70 million, internal costs of only USD 15 million – a profit of around USD 55 million per launch
- Payload capacity: 22.8 tons into low Earth orbit (LEO), 8.3 tons into geostationary orbit (GEO).
SpaceX wants to use the Starship to transport up to 100 tons of freight into orbit in future – at radically low launch costs of just USD 3 million. This brings manned missions to the moon and Mars within reach.
Europe counters with Ariane 6, a further development of Ariane 5:
No reusability, but simplified series production should reduce costs.
Costs per launch: USD 70 to 115 million, depending on the version.
Max. 12 launches per year, first flight planned for 2024.
Future projects such as the Themis rocket and a European Super Heavy Lift Rocket with a reusable first stage are in the works, but will not be ready for use before 2030.
Micro launcher – new momentum from Europe
Flexible small satellite launchers are also being developed in Europe by companies such as Rocket Factory Augsburg, Isar Aerospace, HyImpulse and MaiaSpace:
The goal: low-cost, reusable rockets for a one-ton payload into LEO.
A symbol of Europe’s growing claim to strategic independence in space travel.