ESA Unveils Super Heavy-Lift Rocket Study Results

The European Space Agency (ESA) has released findings from studies on developing a European super heavy-lift rocket capable of delivering 100 tonnes to low Earth orbit by 2030. The studies, part of the PROTEIN initiative, were conducted by ArianeGroup and Rocket Factory Augsburg. While feasible, the project faces challenges and requires immediate action, particularly in developing a high-thrust staged-combustion engine. ESA is pursuing multiple engine development projects, and both companies have proposed reusable rocket designs with varying capabilities and costs.