Three missions will launch on Avio's Vega-C rocket from Europe's Spaceport in French Guiana. Spanish firm Persei will demonstrate the E.T. Pack system, a kilometre-long aluminium tether that generates Lorentz drag to deorbit satellites without fuel, helping mitigate space debris.

Germany's DLR will test its Pluto+ cubesat, which combines advanced avionics with a flexible 100-Watt solar array to prove that high-performance subsystems used on large spacecraft can also function on smaller satellites. French company Grasp will add GapMap-1 to its Earth observation constellation, carrying a short-wave infrared spectrometer for greenhouse gas detection and climate monitoring.

Two further missions are secured with Isar Aerospace's Spectrum launcher from Norway's Andoya Spaceport. Infinite Orbits will fly a dual-satellite demonstration of debris removal, simulating close-proximity operations between an active servicer and an inactive target in low Earth orbit. Dutch company Isispace will oversee the integration and operation of three cubesats carrying multiple experimental payloads.

ESA emphasized that these in-orbit demonstration and validation flights, known as IOD/IOV, are essential for research and commercial innovation. By fostering competition and regular launch opportunities, the Flight Ticket Initiative supports European industry under ESA's Boost! program. Applications for future missions remain open, with the next deadline on October 1.

Related Links
European Space Agency (ESA)
Rocket Science News at Space-Travel.Com