In autumn, the same full-scale model will undergo more flight tests, including a test of the flight control algorithm that will guide the spacecraft model on its own to land at selected landing point – no more ground control, but full automation for the next step of the test campaign. This step will further confirm the engineering and software behind this novel spacecraft.

Thales Alenia Space is the industrial lead for the tests and co-prime for the Space Rider programme. The Italian Defence supports the test activities as part of a national effort to enhance its space capabilities and international collaboration in the sector. The tests will qualify the spacecraft’s whole mission from flight, return to Earth, and landing. After the test campaigns, flight models will be authorised for manufacturing.