Elche-based PLD Space invites schools worldwide to launch experiments into space
From primary schools to universities, students from Spain and around the globe can get involved in this pioneering space programme
It’s not very often that school children have the opportunity to be part of a pioneering space programme, but that’s just what’s happening thanks to trailblazing Elche-based company, PLD Space. This aerospace outfit is offering schools around the globe the chance to launch their very own experiments into the cosmos, completely free of charge.
Building on the success of their 2023 launch of the Miura 1, the first private rocket developed and launched in Europe, PLD Space is now offering schools worldwide the opportunity to send small satellites into space as part of their ‘Miura 5 Spark’ Programme.
The Spark project coincides with two upcoming demonstration launches of the Miura 5 rocket, scheduled for late 2025 and early 2026.
This innovative initiative is supported by the Ministry of Innovation, Industry, Trade and Tourism, led by Nuria Montes, and is designed to spark interest in science, technology and space among young people.
The Miura 5 Spark Programme is open to educational centres of all levels, from primary schools to universities, and invites students to design and develop pioneering, unique and creative scientific and technological projects that can be launched on the Miura 5 rocket.
The selected student teams will be paired with commercial satellite platform providers, giving them a unique opportunity to work with industry experts and see their projects come to life.
Although the contest is open to schools worldwide, priority will be given to Spanish experiments, followed by member states of the EU and NATO. PLD Space will also give priority to proposals from universities, research centres and commercial entities that are willing to integrate experiments by teams of students from Primary, Secondary and Vocational Training.
The selection criteria for school experiments include the country of origin, flexibility of the satellite's orbit, operational risks and the attractiveness of the mission. The deadline for centres to submit applications is November 15, with the final selection of candidates announced on November 30.
A virtual session will then take place on 10 December where candidates will be linked to the commercial entities selected in the Spark programme.
Also of interest: Sept 19-22 Beach Oktoberfest in Villajoyosa and Finestrat
Image: PLD Space
Sign up for the Spanish News Today Editors Roundup Weekly Bulletin and get an email with all the week’s news straight to your inbox
Special offer: Subscribe now for 25% off (36.95 euros for 48 Bulletins)
OR
you can sign up to our FREE weekly roundup!
Read some of our recent bulletins:
25% Discount Special Offer subscription:
36.95€ for 48 Editor’s Weekly News Roundup bulletins!
Please CLICK THE BUTTON to subscribe.
(List price 3 months 12 Bulletins)
Read more stories from around Spain:
