Payload Aerospace (referred to in the article as PLD Space) develops liquid‑fuel rocket engines and launch systems to provide scientific and commercial access to space for small satellites. The company is focused on reducing launch costs via reusable rockets and cost‑efficient technologies, and it operates its own test facilities in Europe. The firm has conducted successful engine tests since mid‑2015 and intends to continue maturing its motor through the TEPREL R&D programme over the next 21 months. Planned technical goals include achieving run times of more than 150 seconds and enabling multiple re‑ignitions—conditions the company says are required for flight qualification. Management (cofounders Raúl Torres and Raúl Verdú) expects the CDTI backing to boost interest from national and international private investors. The company aims to start commercial launches with its ARION 1 vehicle once further financing and development milestones are met.

Total raised

$2M

Funding rounds

1

Latest round

Equity

Latest activity

Apr 2016