ESA Assembles Themis Europe’s First Reusable Rocket Demonstrator

ESA Completes Assembly of Europe’s First Reusable Rocket Demonstrator: Themis Stands Ready for Historic Vertical Landing Tests in Sweden

The European Space Agencies (ESA) has marked a pivotal milestone in its pursuit of reusable launch technology with the successful assembly of the Themis demonstrator at Sweden’s Esrange Space Center. This 30-meter-tall vehicle, powered by the innovative Prometheus methane-fueled engine, is Europe’s first full-scale attempt at developing vertical takeoff and landing capabilities, a technology that has transformed the economics and strategy of space access globally. Themis now stands on four landing legs at its Kiruna launch pad, set to conduct Europe’s first cryogenic propulsion recovery trials. With initial hop tests planned for later in 2025, Themis could reshape the European space launch landscape and bolster the continent’s strategic autonomy in space.

The completion of Themis is not only a technical achievement but also a strategic response to the dominance of reusable rockets in the global market, particularly those developed by SpaceX. As Europe seeks to maintain its relevance and competitiveness in the commercial launch sector, Themis represents both a technological leap and a symbol of continental collaboration, innovation, and ambition.

Background and Historical Context of European Reusable Rocket Development

Europe’s approach to rocket development has historically emphasized reliability and performance, with expendable launchers like the Ariane series dominating the commercial market for decades. However, the rise of SpaceX and its reusable Falcon 9 system fundamentally altered the economics of space access, prompting the European Space Agency and its partners to reconsider their strategy. The Themis program, officially adopted in 2019, is ESA’s direct response to this shift, aiming to bridge the competitive gap and ensure Europe’s independent access to space.

The urgency for a new approach became evident as SpaceX’s launch cadence and cost-effectiveness surged. In 2023 alone, SpaceX’s Falcon 9 completed 138 orbital flights, while Europe’s Ariane 6 was still in its inaugural phase. This disparity underscored the need for Europe to invest in reusability, not just for economic reasons but also for strategic and political autonomy.

The Themis program builds on decades of European rocketry expertise, with ArianeGroup as the prime contractor and support from multiple European nations. Backed by €39 million in EU funding through the SALTO initiative, Themis is both a technological experiment and a statement of intent: Europe is committed to regaining its competitive edge in space transportation.

Technical Specifications and Assembly Details

The Themis demonstrator is a 30-meter-tall, 3.5-meter-diameter rocket stage designed for vertical takeoff and landing tests. Its structure includes a Multi-Engine Bay (MEB), fuel tanks, a Flight Control Bay (FCB), and a robust upper segment. The vehicle’s propulsion is provided by the Prometheus engine, which offers restart capability and deep throttling, both essential for controlled landings.

The Prometheus engine, burning liquid methane and liquid oxygen, can deliver approximately 100 tonnes of thrust and modulate between 30% and 110% of maximum power. This flexibility is a significant departure from previous European engines and is crucial for the vehicle’s planned hop and landing maneuvers.

A distinctive feature of Themis is its four seven-meter landing legs, manufactured by MT Aerospace in Germany. These legs are designed to withstand the stresses of repeated landings and include integrated aerocovers for aerodynamic efficiency. The vehicle’s avionics, grid fins, and advanced software enable precise navigation and landing within a 20 x 20 meter area.

“The Themis demonstrator incorporates advanced design features, including throttleable engines and robust landing legs, to enable safe and precise vertical landings, technologies that are foundational for reusable launchers.”

The assembly process, culminating at Esrange, involved transporting the main stage over 3,000 kilometers from France and installing the landing legs on site. This marked the first time the rocket was fully assembled in its operational configuration, ready for integrated systems testing and flight trials.

The SALTO Project and European Collaboration

The SALTO project, funded by the European Commission under Horizon Europe, exemplifies the collaborative spirit driving European space innovation. SALTO, short for “reuSable strAtegic space Launcher Technologies & Operations”, brings together 25 partners from 12 countries, including major industry players, research centers, and SMEs.

Key participants include ArianeGroup (the project coordinator), DLR, CNES, ONERA, IRT Jules Verne, INCAS, and several leading aerospace companies. This broad consortium enables the sharing of expertise and resources, accelerating technological progress and spreading risk across the continent.

SALTO’s methodology represents a cultural shift for European aerospace: rather than exhaustive ground testing before flight, the project adopts a “test and learn” approach, conducting incremental tests with known risks and iterating rapidly. The main activity centers on a test campaign at Esrange, involving a series of low-altitude flights to validate reusability and refurbishment strategies.

“The SALTO initiative marks a fundamental change in European space development, emphasizing rapid prototyping and learning from flight data, a strategy inspired by the successes of commercial space operators.”

Financially, the project has received substantial backing. In November 2024, ESA allocated €230 million to ArianeGroup for continued development, infrastructure, and demonstration activities, signaling strong institutional commitment to the reusability agenda.

Prometheus Engine Technology and Innovation

The Prometheus engine is central to Themis and to Europe’s future in reusable launchers. Developed since 2017, Prometheus is a methane-fueled, gas-generator-cycle engine designed for low-cost production and operational flexibility. Its name, a nod to the mythological figure who gave fire to humanity, also stands for “Precursor Reusable Oxygen Methane cost Effective propulsion System.”

Prometheus is engineered for mass production, with up to 50% of its components made using 3D printing. This approach, combined with a simplified architecture, aims to cut production costs by a factor of ten compared to the Vulcain 2 engine, targeting a price of about one million euros per unit.

The use of methane offers operational and environmental benefits. Methane is easier and cheaper to store than hydrogen, and its higher density allows for more compact, reusable stages. ESA and CNES are also investigating bio-methane production at the Guiana Space Centre, potentially enabling more sustainable operations.

“Prometheus is designed for reusability, low cost, and operational flexibility, qualities essential for Europe’s next generation of launch vehicles.”

The engine has undergone extensive testing, including multiple hot-fires and successful restart sequences, demonstrating its readiness for integration with Themis and future European launchers.

Strategic and Economic Implications for Europe

The push for reusable rockets in Europe is driven by both economic necessity and strategic ambition. SpaceX has demonstrated that reusability can dramatically reduce launch costs; its Falcon 9 launches are estimated at $67 million, with significant savings from booster recovery. In contrast, European launchers like Ariane 5 and Ariane 6 have faced higher costs, contributing to a declining market share.

Reusable technology promises to restore European competitiveness and reduce reliance on foreign providers for critical government and commercial missions. It also supports European sovereignty in space, a priority as space infrastructure becomes increasingly vital for communications, security, and scientific research.

However, challenges remain. SpaceX’s success is partly due to high internal demand (e.g., Starlink), which allows frequent reuse and amortization of development costs. Europe will need sustained institutional support and a robust launch manifest to realize the full economic benefits of reusability.

“Europe’s path to reusability is not just about matching SpaceX, but about developing a strategy that leverages its unique strengths and addresses its own market realities.”

The transition to reusable systems also requires changes in manufacturing, supply chains, and operations, an industry transformation that will take time and investment.

Future Testing Campaign and Operational Roadmap

The Themis test campaign is structured to incrementally validate reusable technologies. It will begin with ground-based wet dress rehearsals and engine hot-fires, followed by low-altitude “hop” tests. The first hop, planned for late 2025, will see Themis rise to about 20 meters, testing its ability to land safely and accurately.

Subsequent tests will increase in altitude and complexity, providing data on engine performance, landing precision, and vehicle refurbishment. The goal is to demonstrate not just technical feasibility but also the operational processes needed for rapid turnaround and reuse.

The test site at Esrange is equipped with advanced robotic systems to handle propellant transfer and post-landing operations, supporting the rapid, safe turnaround essential for reusable launchers. The lessons from these tests will inform the design of Ariane Next, Europe’s planned operational reusable launcher for the 2030s.

“The Themis campaign is more than a technology demo, it’s a foundational step toward a new era of European space transportation.”

Industry Context and Global Competition

The global space launch industry is rapidly shifting toward reusability, with SpaceX setting new standards for cost, frequency, and operational flexibility. Other players, including China and emerging private companies, are developing their own reusable systems, intensifying competition.

Europe’s challenge is to transition from a legacy of expendable launchers to a new generation of reusable vehicles, while maintaining reliability and serving both commercial and institutional markets. The Kourou launch site in French Guiana remains a strategic asset, especially for geostationary missions, but Europe must adapt to new market realities.

Environmental considerations are also increasingly important. Reusable rockets can reduce space debris and ocean waste, though higher launch frequencies may offset some benefits. Europe’s emphasis on quality and reliability could position it well in markets where mission assurance is paramount.

“Reusable rockets are not just a technological trend, they are becoming an industry standard, and Europe must innovate to remain relevant.”

Conclusion and Future Implications

The assembly of Themis at Esrange marks a watershed moment for European spaceflight. It is a testament to the continent’s technical capabilities, collaborative spirit, and strategic resolve. Themis embodies Europe’s determination to maintain independent access to space and to compete effectively in a rapidly evolving global market.

The upcoming test campaign will be crucial in validating Europe’s reusable rocket technologies and informing the design of future operational systems. Success with Themis could pave the way for cost-competitive, frequent European launches, while any setbacks will provide valuable data for further innovation. The outcome will shape Europe’s space transportation strategy for years to come, ensuring that it remains a key player in the global space economy.

FAQ

What is the Themis demonstrator?
Themis is a 30-meter-tall reusable rocket stage developed by ESA and partners to test vertical takeoff and landing technologies using a methane-fueled Prometheus engine.

Why is Themis important for Europe?
Themis represents Europe’s first large-scale effort to develop reusable rockets, aiming to reduce launch costs, increase competitiveness, and ensure strategic autonomy in space access.

What is the SALTO project?
SALTO is an EU-funded initiative supporting the development and testing of reusable launch technologies, involving 25 partners from 12 countries and coordinated by ArianeGroup.

What are the next steps for Themis?
Themis will undergo a series of ground and flight tests at Esrange, starting with low-altitude “hop” tests to demonstrate vertical landing and rapid turnaround capabilities.

How does Themis compare to SpaceX’s rockets?
Themis is Europe’s first attempt at a reusable vertical landing rocket, similar in concept to SpaceX’s Falcon 9, but it is still in the demonstrator phase and not yet operational.

Sources

ESA