The market for small satellites (smallsats) is rapidly growing, as is the sector for space launch services. A major bane for smallsats is their reliance on ridesharing in a large launcher, this entails issues with available space and scheduling.

PRIME is a Phase 2 project developing an EU-based orbital micro-launch vehicle based on dual-cryogenic propellants that reduces both the inert mass of similar vehicles and their environmental impact. Besides allowing greater flexibility in scheduling, the project will introduce a European micro-launcher to the global market at a competitive advantage and greatly reduced cost.