2025 Update: Europe’s Reusable Launch Vehicle Efforts

Part One – Institutional Projects

Credit: CNES

Themis

Themis is probably Europe’s most significant effort to develop a reusable rocket booster. The programme was officially adopted by ESA in late 2019, although preliminary work had been underway for several years prior, led by the French space agency CNES. Development is being spearheaded by ArianeGroup as the prime contractor, with contributions from companies across Europe. While primarily funded by the European Space Agency, Themis has also received €39 million in European Union support through the reuSable straTegic space Launcher Technology & Operations (SALTO) initiative.

The most recent tranche of funding was awarded in November 2024, with ESA allocating €230 million to ArianeGroup for continued development and demonstration. This funding covers ongoing work on the Themis T1H test article, construction of ground infrastructure at the Esrange Space Center in Sweden, and preparation for flight demonstrations. According to ESA, the aim is to mature Themis into an ope…