PLD Space teams with Deimos to advance GNC system for MIURA 5

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PLD Space teams with Deimos to advance GNC system for MIURA 5
by Hugo Ritmico
Madrid, Spain (SPX) Nov 21, 2024

PLD Space has partnered with Deimos to co-develop the Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC) system for its MIURA 5 orbital launcher. Scheduled to begin its launch campaign by late 2025, MIURA 5 will leverage this technology to deliver dependable, simplified launch services for small payloads, offering both dedicated and rideshare options. This partnership marks a significant addition to the growing consortium of collaborators contributing to the MIURA family of launch vehicles.

The MIURA 5, a two-stage orbital rocket, is the flagship of PLD Space's MIURA family, specifically designed for small payloads. The GNC system - a pivotal component of launch technology - ensures the rocket's stability, precision, and accurate trajectory throughout its mission, from liftoff to payload deployment.

Designed for operational flexibility, MIURA 5 is expected to conduct over 30 missions annually by 2030, with launches from multiple spaceports, including the Guiana Space Centre (CSG), a facility operated by CNES and ESA. This approach minimizes the complexities and risks tied to larger launch systems, providing reliable and versatile services for customers with varying payload requirements.

The decision to partner with Deimos reflects PLD Space's commitment to fostering a robust national and European high-value supply chain for the space launcher industry. Deimos was chosen for its expertise, extensive experience, and dedication to innovation in aerospace systems.

Raul Torres, Co-founder and CEO of PLD Space, highlighted the significance of the collaboration: "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." He added, "Deimos is also in line with PLD Space company vision and leadership strategy, so this alliance makes total sense."

In addition to leading GNC system development, Deimos will play a major role in onboard software Verification and Validation (V&V), further enhancing the dependability of MIURA 5's critical systems.

Simone Centuori, CEO of Deimos, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership: "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. Our collaboration with PLD Space demonstrates how innovation and experience can come together to enhance space access for both scientific and commercial missions."