Maia
A two-stage methane rocket built in reusable and expendable versions. MaiaSpace lists up to 4 tonnes to low Earth orbit at its maximum performance, and the first orbital launch is targeted for the second half of 2027.
Why it matters
MaiaSpace bills Maia as Europe's first reusable launch vehicle. ESA committed €184.9 million in launch services to MaiaSpace under its European Launcher Challenge, and the rocket will fly from the former Soyuz pad in French Guiana.
How the technology works
Three engines on the first stage and one Prometheus engine on the upper stage burn liquid bio-methane and liquid oxygen. In the reusable version the first stage is recovered, and an optional Colibri kick stage adds capacity.
Sources
Updated Oct 22, 2026 · How we source facts · Suggest a correction