European project Eu-BEST successfully validates the integration of its rocket engine test bench

Eu-BEST (European Bench for Engine and Stage Testing), the European project dedicated to developing a mobile, flexible, interoperable and modular cryogenic oxygen and methane rocket propulsion test bench, has reached a major milestone after passing a series of tests validating the integration of its components, carried out in Mainz (Germany).

The Institute of Space Studies of Catalonia (IEEC) is participating in this project as part of a seven-member consortium led by Eiffage Énergie Systèmes, which also includes SpaceDreams, OHB Digital Connect, Aeroports de Catalunya, Pangea Propulsion and SUAS Aerospace.

In early October, the companies Eiffage Énergie Systèmes, SpaceDreams and OHB—responsible for the test bench hardware, software & core measurement systems—transported the various components to OHB’s facilities in Mainz, where they assembled the infrastructure and performed functional tests. There, the main subsystems were installed and interconnected: the mechanical structure, thrust measurement system, fluid systems, liquid oxygen and liquid methane tanks, electrical cabinets, and data acquisition systems.

The culmination of this testing process took place on 15 October with the successful completion of interface testing, during a session attended by representatives of the European Commission and the project’s advisory board: the European Space Agency (ESA), the German Aerospace Centre (DLR) and the Centre National d’Études Spatiales (CNES).

The rapid installation, interconnection and subsequent dismantling of the test bench demonstrates the practical benefits of its modular and mobile design, and confirms its high potential for agile deployment and relocation. Developed with the support of the European Commission through Horizon Europe funding (HORIZON-CL4-2023-SPACE-01), Eu-BEST aims to make rocket testing more flexible, accessible and cost-effective, with a modular infrastructure designed to accommodate various needs.

Following the successful outcome of these tests, the project is now entering its final stages, with the ultimate validation of its results scheduled for this coming December.