MaiaSpace Secures First Commercial Launch Contract
WASHINGTON – MaiaSpace, a small launch vehicle company originating from ArianeGroup, has finalized its initial commercial launch agreement. Missions are projected to commence as early as 2027.
Agreement with Exotrail for Multiple Launches
On March 20, MaiaSpace announced the signing of a contract with Exotrail, a firm specializing in orbital transfer vehicles, for a series of launches of Exotrail’s SpaceVan vehicles. Details of the agreement, including the precise number of launches and financial aspects, were not disclosed by either company.
Maia Launch Vehicle Specifications
The SpaceVan vehicles are slated to be launched using MaiaSpace’s small launch vehicle, currently in development. Launch operations are expected to begin as early as late 2026 from the former Soyuz launch site in French Guiana. The vehicle is designed to deliver:
- Up to 1,500 kg to orbit in expendable configuration.
- 500 kg to orbit with a reusable first stage, landing on a barge.
MaiaSpace is also developing a kick stage to further enhance payload capabilities.
Executive Perspectives on the Partnership
Yohann Leroy, Chief Executive Officer of MaiaSpace, expressed enthusiasm about the agreement. “We extend our gratitude to Exotrail, a leader in end-to-end space mobility, for their confidence,” stated Leroy. “This agreement enhances Exotrail’s access to dependable launch opportunities tailored to their clients’ requirements and strengthens MaiaSpace’s objective to become a prominent entity in European space transportation.”
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Exotrail’s Growing SpaceVan Program
Exotrail’s inaugural SpaceVan vehicle was launched in November 2023 on a SpaceX Transporter rideshare mission, subsequently deploying a cubesat. The company has outlined plans for three additional SpaceVan missions by 2027. These include a GEO-bound mission as a rideshare on an Ariane 6 flight in the latter half of 2026. Exotrail also entered into an agreement with Isar Aerospace in 2022 for multiple launches on Isar’s Spectrum small launch vehicle.
Exotrail CEO Remarks on the MaiaSpace Collaboration
Jean-Luc Maria, Chief Executive Officer of Exotrail, commented on the partnership, stating, “The SpaceVan mission manifest is expanding, and we are excited to collaborate with a reliable partner like MaiaSpace for our space access needs.”