« Prize for Game-Changing Innovation for European Launch Solutions » : Congratulations to the three winners from Aerospace Valley

On January 27 2026, at the 18th European Space Conference, 5 disruptive innovations were awarded the Prize for Game-Changing Innovation for European Launch Solutions, in the presence of Commissioner Andrius Kubilius and MEP Christophe Grudler. Each winner received €950,000 for their innovation that will redefine Europe’s access to space, reinforcing our strategic autonomy and improve the competitiveness of the European space industry.

Driving Innovation for Sovereignty and Sustainability

Funded by the European Parliament with a €5 million investment, this Prize underscores the EU’s commitment to fostering innovation and addressing pressing challenges in Access to Space— an indispensable element of the space ecosystem, without which there is no Union space policy, and in an increasingly competitive global market. From combating climate change to advancing digital infrastructure and ensuring strategic security, Europe’s ability to autonomously access space is non-negotiable. By supporting disruptive ideas, the EU aims to slash costs, enhance sustainability, and boost the agility and resilience of launch systems, ensuring Europe not simply to catch up on its delays, but to anticipate and shape the technological revolutions that will drive tomorrow's growth .

Congratulations to the three member companies of the AEROSPACE VALLEY cluster that have been recognized for their innovations:

• SHARPNESS – Alpha Impulsion

Through SHARPNESS, Alpha Impulsion aims to eliminating debris and slashing launch costs, with its zero-waste "autophage" propulsion technology which consumes the rocket's fuselage as fuel.

• V-LOY – ARIANEGROUP

V-LOY is a high-strength, oxygen-compatible alloy. Through this innovation, ArianeGroup is preparing the future High Thrust Staged-combustion cycle Engine, which requires materials capable of withstanding extreme conditions.

• RAUS – PANGEA PROPULSION  :

The RAUS (Reusable Aerospike Upper Stage) project is the continuation of the MERLIn project, both involved within the ARCOS engine development and commercialization plan. ARCOS is Pangea’s modular methalox aerospike propulsion platform, bringing breakthrough technology to reality and unlocking higher efficiency, sustainability, and scalability for future launch systems.