• The Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC) system is responsible for the vehicle’s stability, direction and accuracy throughout the mission.
• PLD Space has considered Deimos’ expertise in GNC and leadership strategy for its selection as a partner in the development of a key subsystem of its MIURA 5 launcher.
• This collaboration is the latest to join the high-profile consortium of partners that PLD Space is gathering for its MIURA family of rockets.

20th November 2024 – PLD Space has selected Deimos to co-lead the development of the Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC) system for MIURA 5 orbital launcher, scheduled to begin its launch campaign by the end of 2025. This technology will enable MIURA 5 to provide dedicated and rideshare options for small payloads reliably and with a reduced operational complexity. This collaboration is the latest to join the high-profile consortium of partners that PLD Space is gathering for the development, manufacture and operation of its MIURA family of rockets.

MIURA 5 launch vehicle is the flagship of PLD Space’s MIURA family, offering a two-stage orbital launcher dedicated to small payloads. As one of the most crucial components in launcher technology, the GNC system is responsible for the vehicle’s stability, direction and accuracy throughout the mission—from liftoff through precise payload delivery.

Designed for maximum flexibility, MIURA 5 is set to provide more than 30 missions per year by 2030, with launches from different spaceports, including the Guiana Space Centre (CSG), owned by CNES and ESA. This launch cadence capability ensures reduced complexities and risks associated with heavy-lift vehicles while providing dedicated or rideshare options for a diverse set of customers.

PLD Space has considered Deimos’ know-how, experience and commitment for its selection as a partner in the development of a key subsystem of its launcher. This decision is also aligned with its aim to consolidate a national and European high value-added chain for the space launcher industry.  

Raúl Torres, Co-founder and CEO of PLD Space, emphasized the importance of this partnership, stating, “Our collaboration with Deimos on MIURA 5’s GNC subsystem is a keystone of PLD Space’s commitment to consolidate a national and European high value-added chain for an industry as sophisticated as the space launchers. Deimos’ proven expertise strengthens our capability to deliver precise and reliable missions, offering more flexibility to our customers and ensuring high standards of safety and performance.” “Deimos is also in line with PLD Space company vision and leadership strategy, so this alliance makes total sense,” added Torres.

The partnership also includes Deimos’ significant role in onboard software Verification and Validation (V&V), further solidifying the reliability of MIURA 5’s critical systems.

“We are proud to bring Deimos’ advanced GNC expertise to the MIURA 5 missions, where accuracy and robustness are absolutely critical to delivering a successful and cost-effective launcher solution for Europe,” said Simone Centuori, CEO of Deimos. “Our collaboration with PLD Space demonstrates how innovation and experience can come together to enhance space access for both scientific and commercial missions.”

Deimos and PLD teams at Spacetech Expo in Bremen

About MIURA 5

MIURA 5 is an orbital launcher with a two-stage configuration and a height of 35.7 metres that is designed, built and operated by PLD Space. With the capacity to place payloads of up to 540 kg in a 500 km sun-synchronous orbit (SSO), MIURA 5 operates from the world-renowned Kourou spaceport in French Guiana.

MIURA 5 contributes to ultra-green and clean technology practices with measures such as the recovery of its first stage, which is retrieved from the ocean and reused for subsequent missions.

In addition, PLD Space uses bio-kerosene (bio RP-1) and liquid oxygen (LOX) in its in-house designed TEPREL-C engines, thereby contributing to a reduction in carbon emissions.

MIURA 5 features more than 70% of the technology and know-how generated with the development of the MIURA 1 technology demonstrator, which on October 7, 2023 made history by becoming the first private rocket developed and launched in Europe.

About PLD Space

PLD Space is a pioneering Spanish aerospace company and a benchmark reference in Europe for developing reusable rockets. With a solid reputation and steadfast commitment that is materialised in its family of MIURA launch vehicles and its manned capsule LINCE. These innovations position Spain among the select few nations capable of successfully deploying any payload into space.

PLD Space was founded in 2011 by Raúl Torres and Raúl Verdú with the aim of facilitating access to space. The company, based in Elche (Spain) and with technical facilities in Teruel (Spain) and Kourou (French Guiana), has a team of more than 250 professionals and 155 million euros in funding to date.

 About Deimos

Deimos, founded in 2001, is a leading European technology group with approximately 500 professionals. Headquartered in Spain and operating through subsidiaries in five countries, Deimos serves a wide range of industries, including space, transport, aeronautics, and maritime. The company is also a trusted partner in delivering comprehensive digital transformation solutions.

In the space sector, Deimos offers end-to-end services, from small satellite design and integration to micro-launcher subsystem development and Earth observation satellite operations. Deimos also provides satellite data and end-user applications, ensuring a full range of solutions for clients.

In addition to its engineering expertise, Deimos delivers operational space and ground infrastructure services, such as satellite tracking and data reception. Through the Deimos Sky Survey (DESS) Center, the company plays a crucial role in Space Safety and Awareness by tracking and cataloging space debris and near-Earth objects, contributing to the sustainability and safety of space activities.