European Space Innovation: Eutelsat Partners with MaiaSpace

Eutelsat has struck a deal with MaiaSpace to launch its LEO satellites, advancing Europe's space capabilities. This move aims to reduce reliance on SpaceX and highlights Europe's strategic push in the space sector, aligning with governmental interests to enhance secure internet access and expand satellite constellations.

European satellite operator Eutelsat has entered into a crucial agreement with French space startup MaiaSpace to handle future launches of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites. This strategic partnership marks a significant step for Europe as it seeks to compete with U.S. space giant SpaceX.

The agreement, a multi-launch deal with MaiaSpace, will commence in 2027. MaiaSpace will serve as a complementary launch partner to Eutelsat's existing relationships, according to Arlen Kassighian, Eutelsat's chief engineering officer. This collaboration forms part of Eutelsat's strategy to diversify its launch options and strengthen Europe's space technology capabilities.

Eutelsat, which owns the OneWeb LEO constellation, views this partnership as a means to increase satellite deployment efficiency. OneWeb's satellites are critical for secure internet provisioning to governments and remote areas. As Europe scales its space efforts, MaiaSpace, formed in 2022, anticipates starting commercial operations by 2026, promising an innovative, partially reusable launcher system.

(With inputs from agencies.)