PLD Space advances MIURA 5 launch capability with TEPREL C engine tests

PLD Space advances MIURA 5 launch capability with TEPREL C engine tests
by Sophie Jenkins
London, UK (SPX) Jun 12, 2025

PLD Space has reached a critical milestone in the development of its MIURA 5 orbital launcher by completing integrated testing of its TEPREL-C rocket engines. This progress marks a significant step toward the start of the engine's flight qualification campaign, which is slated to begin at the end of June.

The Spanish aerospace company emphasizes propulsion as the foundation of its technology, guided by its enduring motto: "No engine, no rocket." This philosophy was validated in October 2023 when the TEPREL-B engine successfully powered MIURA 1, the first private European rocket to reach space. The more advanced TEPREL-C builds on this legacy with greater complexity and performance.

Running on kerosene (RP-1) and liquid oxygen (LOX), TEPREL-C will drive the MIURA 5 into orbit. Five sea-level versions of the engine, each producing 190 kN of thrust, will power the rocket's first stage. The second stage will utilize a vacuum-optimized variant delivering 75 kN.

PLD Space has rapidly transitioned the TEPREL-C from concept to test phase, leveraging the heritage of TEPREL-B and its vertically integrated development model. This includes in-house control over every phase, from design and production to testing and launch execution.

To support this, the company has enhanced its Elche-based production center with high-end manufacturing techniques such as copper and nickel electroplating, Inconel welding, and X-ray inspections for non-destructive testing.

From scratch, PLD Space has engineered critical engine subsystems-including new turbopumps, gas generators, and cryogenic valves. The turbopumps for both rocket stages have been tested extensively and validated against performance benchmarks, making them the largest ever developed by a private European firm.

All engine component tests were conducted at the company's dedicated Teruel test facility, the largest private rocket engine test site in Europe. This infrastructure enables rapid iteration and refinement, giving PLD Space an uncommon development agility in the aerospace industry.

With initial testing now complete, PLD Space is prepared to launch the full engine qualification phase, reinforcing its leadership in European small launch systems.