Current and future development of the European Ariane launch vehicle
Abstract
In the present paper, the current status of the Ariane development program as of September 1979 is reviewed with a view toward the first test launch, scheduled for December. All system studies are completed concerning the definition of the vehicle configuration and the support of the first launch. These include studies related to performance, aerodynamics, general loads, structural dynamics, guidance and control, flight mechanics (stage separations), environmental conditions, and reliability. All design reviews are closed, and the vehicle design is frozen. The tests which were carried out with the various elements and subsystems of the launch vehicle are described, and some problems encountered in the program are discussed.
- Publication:
-
Munich International Astronautical Federation Congress
- Pub Date:
- September 1979
- Bibcode:
- 1979muni.iafcR....L
- Keywords:
-
- Ariane Launch Vehicle;
- European Space Programs;
- Technology Assessment;
- Engine Tests;
- Equipment Specifications;
- Fairings;
- Mission Planning;
- Product Development;
- Propulsion System Configurations;
- Spacecraft Design;
- Stage Separation;
- Launch Vehicles and Space Vehicles