ESA Space Rider reusable space transportation system

Space Rider is ESA’s uncrewed orbital laboratory and payload-return system under development for launch on Vega-C. Its orbital module provides power and manoeuvring support, while a reusable lifting-body reentry module brings experiments back to Earth. The 2024 user-guide update describes up to 600 kg of payloads and approximately two months in orbit. After atmospheric reentry the return module deploys a steerable parafoil and lands on skis for payload retrieval and refurbishment. The design draws on IXV’s 2015 reentry demonstration; full-size drop-test hardware and thermal-protection testing were still advancing in 2026.