a Future European Launcher: Ariane 5/HERMES

The development of the Ariane launch vehicle was begun in Europe ten years ago to provide independence in terms of the commercial exploitation of telecommunications satellites. In connection with the spectacular development of the satellite market and, consequently, the launch services market, Ariane has now also a commercial objective, which is related to the penetration of the international launch services market. The current capacity of Ariane is adequate for short and medium-term European launch requirements. However, in the longer term, Ariane's capacity is insufficient and a new launcher is needed. It is attempted to evaluate future launching requirements for the 1995-2000 period, taking into account competing launch resources related to the U.S. Space Shuttle. The results of this evaluation lead to a discussion of the characteristics of the Ariane 5, which is to be the new launcher for the 1990s. Attention is given to improved geostationary orbit service, low orbit injection, and the Hermes European manned system.