Ariane 3 - A European launch vehicle with jettisonable solid-propellant boosters
Abstract
Ariane is to be employed in the 1980s to place satellites for civilian users of space into geostationary orbits. Initial payloads of approximately one ton are considered. The implementation of plans for an improvement of the performance of Ariane will make it possible to launch heavier satellites. The development program for the launch vehicle Ariane provides for a stepwise increase of the payload in transfer orbit from 1700 kg to 2300 kg. It is planned to increase the weight of the propellant of the third stage from 8 to 10 tons, to attach two solid-propellant boosters to the ground stage, and to create double-launch possibilities. The solid-propellant booster for Ariane is discussed, taking into account questions of booster selection and a performance analysis. Attention is given to the design of the ground stage and the jettison system.
- Publication:
-
Deutsche Gesellschaft fuer Luft- und Raumfahrt
- Pub Date:
- May 1981
- Bibcode:
- 1981dglr.meetQ....K
- Keywords:
-
- Ariane Launch Vehicle;
- Booster Rocket Engines;
- Jettison Systems;
- Rocket Engine Design;
- Solid Propellant Rocket Engines;
- Synchronous Satellites;
- Aerodynamic Characteristics;
- Payloads;
- Performance Prediction;
- Research And Development;
- Launch Vehicles and Space Vehicles