PLD Space Initiates System-Level Testing for Miura 5 Orbital Rocket
Spanish firm advances Miura 5 development with three parallel vehicle builds and infrastructure expansion.
1Parallel Vehicle Manufacturing Strategy
PLD Space has successfully constructed three Miura 5 vehicles simultaneously at their Elche facility. Two units serve as dedicated qualification hardware, while the third is designated for the debut flight. This parallel production approach allows engineers to integrate real-time test data directly into the flight vehicle assembly, significantly accelerating the overall development cycle.
2Second Stage Testing Protocols
The company has positioned a fully assembled second stage at their Teruel test site. This critical component integrates structural elements, electronics, fuel systems, and engine controls. The team is preparing for a wet dress rehearsal using actual propellants, followed by a static fire test to validate engine performance while the stage remains secured.
3Infrastructure and Site Expansion
PLD Space manages 17,000 square meters of factory space in Elche alongside ten specialized test stands in Teruel. A new 10.2-meter stand has been specifically commissioned to accommodate complete second-stage testing. These facilities support the rigorous validation of flight electronics, which are currently prepared for four complete rocket units to ensure operational readiness.
4Flight Separation and Payload Protection
Beyond stage testing, the company has completed validation for flight separation mechanisms between the two rocket stages. They have also finalized testing on two nose cone versions designed to protect payloads during atmospheric transit. These milestones are essential for ensuring the structural integrity of the Miura 5 during its ascent to orbital altitude.
5Ground Equipment and Launch Logistics
Logistical preparations are underway at the Guiana Space Centre in Kourou, where PLD Space has received approximately 60 containers of ground equipment. Collaboration with the French space agency, CNES, focuses on establishing safety procedures. Simultaneously, engineers are testing launch pad hardware, including the strongback erector, hold-down clamps, and critical power and fuel connection lines.
6Financial and Supply Chain Backing
The Miura 5 project is supported by a 288 million euro Series C funding round and selection for the European Space Agency’s European Launcher Challenge. PLD Space has engaged 493 suppliers, investing 42.7 million euros into the supply chain. This financial foundation supports the manufacturing of 13 fuel tanks and seven complete engines.
7Historical Context and Milestones
The current development builds upon the technical experience gained from the successful flight of the smaller Miura 1 suborbital rocket in October 2023. By leveraging lessons from this previous mission, the company aims to mitigate risks for the Miura 5 demonstration flight, which remains scheduled for the first half of the year 2027.
8Strategic Development Outlook
PLD Space is systematically moving toward orbital capability by integrating component testing with full-scale vehicle assembly. The combination of parallel manufacturing, expanded test infrastructure, and robust supplier partnerships positions the company to meet its 2027 launch target. Continued coordination with international space agencies remains a central component of their operational strategy.
Original article: The Next Web — PLD Space Initiates System-Level Testing for Miura 5 Orbital Rocket