Ariane - A free world resource
Abstract
In March 1980, a European commercial company was organized with the objective to market, produce, and operate the Ariane launch vehicle. The factors involved in the 1973 European decision to initiate the Ariane program are discussed, taking into account the decision of the U.S. to terminate production and use of expendable launch vehicles (ELVs), European multinational pride, and sound business reasons for such a venture. The current situation concerning the space launch services in the free world is examined. Attention is given to low Shuttle pricing, the advantages of the competition between the Space Shuttle and Ariane for the ultimate user of the satellite launching services, Ariane 3, Ariane 44L, lesser capability versions of Ariane 4, and Ariane 5.
- Publication:
-
EASCON 1985: National Space Strategy - A Progress Report
- Pub Date:
- 1985
- Bibcode:
- 1985easc.rept..321H
- Keywords:
-
- Ariane Launch Vehicle;
- European Space Programs;
- International Cooperation;
- Space Shuttles;
- Nasa Programs;
- Policies;
- Technological Forecasting;
- Launch Vehicles and Space Vehicles