The European Space Agency's (ESA) ambitious reusable rocket demonstrator, Themis, has reached a major milestone. Standing tall on its launchpad at the Esrange Space Center in Kiruna, Sweden, the fully assembled T1H model – a 30-meter-tall marvel – is poised for its inaugural flight tests. This marks a significant step forward in Europe's quest for reusable space transportation.
The journey of T1H from the ArianeGroup integration building in Les Mureaux, France, involved a 3000km trek by truck, showcasing the engineering feat of transporting such a large and complex piece of machinery. After meticulous final checks at a Kiruna assembly building, the rocket’s four landing legs were expertly installed in August. This is the first time the full assembly has been completed, signifying readiness for the crucial wet dress rehearsal.
Themis’s innovative design incorporates cryogenic propulsion, employing the powerful Prometheus engine – almost as powerful as the Ariane 6 main engine. A key differentiator is Prometheus's ability to restart in flight and throttle thrust, ensuring a controlled and safe vertical landing. This technology is central to Themis’s objective of demonstrating a full-scale vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) capability for a reusable rocket stage.
This groundbreaking project, part of ESA's future Space Transportation preparation program, is a testament to international collaboration. ArianeGroup serves as the prime contractor, partnering with numerous European industrial participants. Funding for Themis's first flight campaign is provided by the European Union's Horizon Europe project Salto, implemented by a 25-partner consortium from 12 EU countries. This collaborative effort underscores Europe's commitment to developing sustainable and cost-effective access to space.
---
Originally published at: https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Future_space_transportation/Themis_stands_on_the_launch_pad
