PLD Space shares a mock-up of its planned crew capsule, Lince. Photo: PLD Space

Spanish launch startup PLD Space announced plans for a large reusable launch vehicle and a crew capsule on Monday. 

Last October, PLD Space launched its suborbital Miura 1 rocket for the first time. The company is currently working toward the launch of the Miura 5 two-stage, orbital rocket. The first commercial flights of Miura 5 are scheduled for 2026. The company also unveiled an upgraded version of the launcher with improved orbital capabilities and a significantly higher payload capacity. 

PLD Space held an investor and press event called Beyond_ at its new production facility in Elche, Spain. The plant is set to produce six complete Miura 5 launchers and 60 Teprel-C engines by 2025.

Beyond the Miura 5 rocket, PLD Space plans for the Miura Next series — Miura Next, Miura Next Heavy, and Miura Next Super Heavy—capable of delivering up to 50 tonnes to orbit. The company said these future large launchers will meet the space industry’s unmet needs. The first flight of Miura Next is planned for 2030, with its technology set to be integrated into subsequent models within the Miura Next range. 

In addition, PLD Space also announced plans for the Lince crew capsule. The company plans that Lince will provide Europe the capability to send astronauts into space. The first tests for Lince are scheduled to begin in 2025 to conduct its first uncrewed test flight with a Miura 5 rocket in 2028, launching from the European spaceport in French Guiana. PLD Space aims for the first orbital flight of the capsule in 2030. 

“We will be able to launch any type of payload that serves the market, providing space transportation solutions to meet all demands,” commented Executive President Ezequiel Sánchez.

This strategy for the startup comes after PLD Space raised $84 million in funding in April 2024 and a $34 million loan from Spanish banks in July to fund the Miura 5 launch program.