Redwire's Belgian subsidiary, Redwire Space NV, is one of four organizations selected for independent industry studies focused on defining the framework for interplanetary spacecraft. The initiative aims to identify viable small satellite platform solutions that can be transported aboard LightShip, an electric propulsion spacecraft capable of carrying payloads to Mars while providing navigation and communication support. Redwire's proposed design is based on its adaptable Hammerhead small satellite platform, leveraging its advanced avionics technology, which was most recently deployed on ESA's Hera mission.
"We are very happy that ESA has trusted us again to lead a consortium. This project will help us unlock new possibilities for small, cost-effective Mars platforms, pushing the boundaries of smallsat innovation while maintaining a clear focus on advancing humanity's presence beyond Earth. Together, we are setting the stage for the next generation of space exploration," said Erik Masure, President of Redwire Space Europe.
Redwire's European operations, based in Belgium, have more than four decades of experience in spacecraft development and technological innovation for ESA missions. The company played a pivotal role as the prime contractor for ESA's PROBA-1, PROBA-2, and PROBA-V missions, which collectively boast 50 years of continuous operation without failure. Building on this legacy, Redwire continues to contribute to key ESA programs, including Skimsat, a small satellite technology demonstrator designed for very low Earth orbit; the International Berthing and Docking Mechanism for the lunar Gateway; the Hera mission to analyze the Didymos binary asteroid system; and the Proba-3 mission, which will pioneer precision formation flying to study the Sun's corona.
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