Synopsis
Here is a summary of the key points from the report on small launchers:
- There is a growing market for launching small satellites under 500 kg, with forecasts of around 4,000 per year globally. However, the total mass accessible to small launchers is estimated at only 5-10 tons per year.
- There are over 100 small launcher projects worldwide, with high diversity in architectures and performance from a few kg to 500 kg payload to LEO. However, only a very small number have actually reached orbit so far.
- There are also around 40 new launch site projects globally. Numerous initiatives in Europe reduce likelihood of sustainable success compared to well-funded foreign competitors.
- Recommendations include: focus on a European launcher with 800-1000 kg capacity, consolidate European institutional needs, facilitate info sharing among actors, accelerate technology developments like reusable stages.
- Vertical launch with two stages is most viable short-term. Need to reduce costs via simplified operations, increased production, and design/qualification process review.
- Flexibility for multiple payloads is key via kick stages and orbital transfer modules. Recommend development of “green” propellants and electric propulsion.
- Non-recurring development costs could be €150-800M depending on capacity. Recurring production costs depend on rates, infrastructure, regulations.
- Dedicated small launches offer availability benefits but $5M per launch is optimistic. Europe has limited private funding opportunities compared to US.
In summary, there is a modest launch market for small satellites globally. Numerous European initiatives are emerging but consolidation is recommended to successfully compete, along with technology development, cost reduction, and funding support.