PLD Spacelaunched its first, smaller rocket, Miura 1, from Spain last year.
However, for a bigger orbital launcher like Miura 5, the company needs a facility with specific capabilities.
PLD Space plans to conduct test and flight campaigns for MIURA 5 from the site.
The rockets maiden flight is scheduled for late 2025.
The company now employs over 250 people.
It has raised170mn in funding to date.
The companys ambitions extend beyond MIURA 5.
The USA remains a global leader, while China is emerging as a powerful challenger.
Then theresEurope, which has historically lagged behindin the space race.
PLD Space hopes to be the flagbearer for a new era of private European spaceflight.
But its not alone.
The company faces stiff competition from other startups with similar ambitions and similar timelines.
Two of the most promising are Rocket Factory Augsburg (RFA) and Isar Aerospace, both from Germany.
These startups are developing partially reuseable, orbital launchers with a similar carrying capacity to Miura 5 1000-1500kg.
All three contenders are rushing to become the first private company to launch a European-built satellite launcher into orbit.
Whoever gets there first, one things for sure: Europes private space race is heating up.
And thats good for the continents celestial ambitions whichever way you slice it.
Story bySion Geschwindt
Sion is a freelance science and technology reporter, specialising in climate and energy.
