Space Rider Programme

ESA’s Space Rider Programme develops an uncrewed reusable orbital laboratory and payload-return capability for Vega-C. Its flight and ground segments cover a service module, lifting-body reentry module, payload integration, autonomous parafoil landing, retrieval and refurbishment. The 2024 spacecraft user-guide update specifies payloads up to 600 kg and missions of approximately two months. Full-size drop-test model integration and thermal-protection testing continued in 2026, supporting the qualification of repeated return missions for research and technology demonstrations.