2026 second quarter Future Launchers Preparatory Programme highlights

In April, the European Space Agency’s Future Launchers Preparatory Programme (FLPP) launched a new invitation to tender on Structures, Materials, Mechanisms and Processes for Space Transportation. The initiative is part of the Future Innovation and Research in Space Transportation, known as FIRST! The invitation to tender followed from a strong call for ideas that saw 117 ideas submitted from 14 Member States and almost 180 participants taking part in a dedicated pitch day.

https://commercialisation.esa.int/2026/04/first-structures-materials-mechanisms-and-processes-for-space-transportation-esa-invites-proposals-as-new-itt-opens-after-successful-pitch-day/

The quarter also saw the reopening of ESA's Boost! programme call for proposals, inviting European companies developing commercial space transportation services to apply for co-funding and access ESA expertise and facilities. The call remains open until the end of 2028.

https://www.esa.int/articles/about-us/directorates/space-transportation/boost/a-new-boost-for-space-transportation-companies