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Europe is developing a new space rocket called the RLV C5 capable of transporting 70 tons into low Earth orbit. The project is based on a different philosophy from the American Star Ship, focusing on operational efficiency and partial reuse to ensure European autonomy in accessing space.
Europe is seeking to solidify its position in the global space race through an ambitious rocket project called the RLV C5, which represents a qualitative leap in the old continent's strategy to develop independent space capabilities that put it in direct confrontation with American dominance represented by SpaceX's Star Ship vehicle. According to a scientific study published in the specialized CEAS Space Journal, the new European rocket is characterized by its ability to transport more than 70 tons to low Earth orbit, placing it in the category of very heavy rockets. The design is based on a reusable winged booster inspired by the SpaceLiner project, along with an upper stage powered by highly efficient liquid hydrogen and oxygen fuels. The European project adopts a technology philosophy that differs from SpaceX's approach, focusing on operational efficiency rather than sheer scale. This is evidenced by the innovative landing system that relies on booster sliding across the Atmosphere and atmospheric capture by private aircraft, reducing the need for fuel reserves and raising the actual payload ratio to 74% of the launch mass compared to 40% in Star Ship. Despite the theoretical superiority in efficiency, the European project faces the fundamental challenges of being still at the stage of conceptual design, while Star Ship retains a clear advantage through actual tests and future capacity to transport more than 115 tons. Complex engineering in the development of thermal protection systems and rapid reuse is an obstacle to both projects. Space experts agree that the RLV C5 project is not so much a direct competition for StarShip as it reflects a progressive and realistic European vision for building independent space capabilities. DLR researchers confirm that this practical pathway will give Europe an important foothold in the new space age, especially with a focus on sustainability and reducing launch costs as critical factors in the future of the global space industry.
Source: Al-Wehda Al-Arabia News Portal
