07/07/2025 (Agence Europe) – On Monday 7 July, the European Space Agency (ESA) announced the five preselected competitors in the European Launcher Challenge – (ELC): Isar Aerospace, Maiaspace, Orbital Express Launch, PLD Space and Rocket Factory Augsburg. Successful competitors may be awarded contracts for two distinct components: launch services for ESA to be performed in the period 2026-2030 or a launch service capacity upgrade demonstration, including at least one flight demonstration of the upgraded launch service capacity. ESA has earmarked a maximum of €169 million per competitor, covering all activities under the two components. The European Space Agency will now start a dialogue phase with preselected competitors and with the Member States concerned, in order to consolidate the proposals for the Ministerial Council to be held in November 2025. (CG)