European aerospace firm Ariane Group and CNES, the French space agency, have teamed up to develop a reusable first stage rocket. The rocket, dubbed Themis, is based on SpaceX’s Falcon 9. “SpaceX has been very supportive of our efforts in Europe with regards to this project,” said Mr. Suffredini.
European aerospace firm Ariane Group and CNES, the French space agency, have teamed up to develop a reusable first stage rocket. The rocket, dubbed Themis, is based on SpaceX’s Falcon 9. The rocket will differ from a number of other reusable rocket designs in its ability to land in the same location as it launched, enabling the engine to be reused for subsequent launches, and reducing costs.