Satellite launchers
Abstract
Problems in the selection or development of a suitable launcher for West European (ESRO) satellite projects are examined. Selection of the number of stages and of solid or liquid propellant are weighed. Test and vibration stands, the Pogo effect, and advantages of inertial navigation over radio guidance techniques are discussed. The importance of reliability and backup redundancy systems is emphasized. Advantages and problems of the recoverable airborne launcher are considered and ground-launched vehicles are given preference for reasons of costs and project requirements. The Ariane launcher (four Viking engines in first stage, one in second stage) selected for the West European program (183 civil and military satellites, of which 138 communications satellites, for the 1980s, in the 700-800 kg range) is described.
- Publication:
-
La Recherche
- Pub Date:
- April 1976
- Bibcode:
- 1976Rech....7..316S
- Keywords:
-
- European Space Programs;
- Launch Vehicles;
- Spacecraft Launching;
- Ariane Launch Vehicle;
- Communication Satellites;
- Inertial Navigation;
- Meteosat Satellite;
- Orbital Launching;
- Pogo Effects;
- Recoverable Launch Vehicles;
- Solid Propellants;
- Spacecraft Propulsion;
- Test Stands;
- Vibration Tests;
- Launch Vehicles and Space Vehicles