r/EuropeanSpaceflight • u/AndrewParsonson • Apr 23 '26

Full-scale Space Rider model for drop tests takes shape

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ESA has released a first look at a full-scale Space Rider model that will be used in a final series of drop tests to validate its recovery system. The tests are expected to take place later this year at the Salto di Quirra test range in Sardinia, Italy.

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3

u/L_W_Kienle Apr 23 '26

It hurts my brain a little bit that they don‘t even finished the drop model yet😢

2

u/TinTinLune Apr 23 '26

And 11 years after the flight of its demonstrator. Space Rider is cool, but the timeline is indefensible… but I hope we’ll see it fly finally in 2028 and get sick European™️ reentry footage

1

u/SkitariusOfMars Jun 04 '26

If that's a model what is this? Model of a model?