HyImpulse Technologies, a German manufacturer of commercial launch vehicles and a member of our New Space group, has announced €11.8 million in new funding as a co-funded contract extension under European Space Agency’s (ESA) Boost! Program. 

This investment will accelerate the development of HyImpulse’s Small Launcher 1 (SL1) orbital vehicle, advancing the company’s mission to deliver reliable, cost-effective orbital access for payloads up to 600 kg across Europe and globally. 

HyImpulse's SL1: A game-changer for European space access

HyImpulse is a leading European Launch system manufacturer and launch service provider for small satellite transport. Its small satellite launch vehicles, with unique hybrid propulsion made of oxygen and paraffin, set new standards in the commercial space sector.

The new contract represents a major milestone in accelerating HyImpulse SL1’s path to commercialisation. This strategic investment from ESA underscores its commitment for innovative and sustainable European launch solutions, focused on rapid deployment, cost efficiency, and greater accessibility for orbital missions. Over the next 18 months, this funding will drive the next development phase for SL1, supporting technological advancements, testing protocols, and key milestones in operational readiness. 

“This contract extension is an investment in Europe’s future as a competitive force in space. Together with ESA, we are creating a high-performance, sustainable launch solution to secure Europe’s independent access to space and meet the surging global demand for small satellite launches. But to fully realise Europe’s potential as a space leader, sustained and increased investment is imperative—not optional. With continued support from ESA and European stakeholders, we have the potential to unlock a new era of European leadership in space, driving forward critical scientific, commercial, and strategic missions,” said Christian Schmierer, CEO and founder at HyImpulse.

The SL1 multi-stage orbital launch vehicle, scheduled for its inaugural lift-off in 2026, stands at a height of 32 meters and weighs 50 tons. Depending on the weight of the payload, it can ascend to an altitude exceeding 500 km, i.e. reaching low Earth orbits. Designed for cost-effective transportation of small satellites into space, it can carry payloads of up to 600 kilograms to low Earth orbits.

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