The MPGE (Multi Purpose Green Engine) program, funded by the Italian Space Agency through PNRR resources, aims to develop technologies for two variants of storable propellant engines: one with a constant thrust of 2500 N, and another with a throttleable version ranging from 35% to 160% of thrust, enabled by the use of electric pumps. The engine, featuring a novel architecture made possible by extensive use of 3D printing, is designed for use in next-generation space systems—including reusable ones like Space Rider—as well as for the orbital stage of the Vega launchers.

Developed in collaboration with SMEs, universities, and startups, the engine uses hydrogen peroxide and kerosene as propellants, representing an innovative example of green technology entirely designed, built, and tested in Italy.

The program also includes the design and construction of a dual-cell test bench (OPTF) and a high-concentration hydrogen peroxide production facility (HPT-F).

The High Thrust Engine programme, funded by the European Space Agency, aims to develop a 60-ton class cryogenic rocket engine, the MR60, is a natural evolution of the VEGA-E upper stage and MR10 engine where competences and infrastructures have been developed for the introduction of Oxygen-Methane propulsion for launch vehicles.

The MR60 is a key building block to continue the transition of VEGA towards a more modern, competitive, flexible and green launch system using liquid propulsion, towards 2030, and provides several advantages: 

• Architectural simplification through the use of a single propellant pair for two-stage to orbit launcher configuration with reduced costs
• Overall increase of performance and flexibility thanks to the possibility to throttle, shut-down and re-ignite the engines including recovery and re-use;
• Increase of production cadence with benefits on the recurring cost implementing engine clustering on the stage, with simplification of the logistics

The PNRR STS project aims to accelerate the development of strategic technologies for future space launch vehicles, focusing on innovation, efficiency, and sustainability. Among the main areas of intervention is the CCT technology stream, dedicated to the development of Composite material Cryogenic Tanks, which are essential for reducing the stage structural mass and increasing payload capacity. Avio, together with Italian and international partners, has developed technologies and facilities for their manufacturing, inspection, and testing. Another area is SIA, acronym of System Integrated Avionics, which focuses on the integration of modular avionics, with the goal of reducing development time and costs while making the system more flexible.

The NDSS stream introduces Non-Explosive Separation Systems, capable of reducing dynamic loads and shocks on payloads and promoting vehicle reusability. A key element of the project is also the development of a mobile and innovative ground infrastructure and systems, designed to support rapid operations adaptable to different contexts.

To support these technologies, the Flight Demonstrator #1 has been designed—a single-stage suborbital vehicle equipped with the MR10 cryogenic engine in its sea-level version. FD1 represents a real and integrated testbed: during the pre-flight phase, cryogenic propellant handling procedures will be validated, while the mission will include a propulsive ascent phase, a coasting phase to test system behavior in microgravity conditions, and finally a passively stabilized descent until splashdown at sea. The data collected in all phases will be fundamental for optimizing the technologies and applying them to future launchers.