The launch of the new European Ariane 6 rocket has been postponed again
Europe is developing a new generation rocket, whose payload will be close to Falcon 9 from SpaceX. From the beginning, the launch of Ariane 6 was planned for 2020, but was postponed several times. It looks like the European Space Agency will have to do it again.
УUntil recently, the debut launch was scheduled for the end of this year. However in BBC interview the director general of the space agency said that the rocket will not fly until 2023. Several critical issues arose during its development.
One of the issues with the cryogenic system has been resolved – its testing has recently been completed. However, due to development problems, several important tests have been postponed. For example, testing of the second stage of a rocket with a Vinci engine, which is to take place in Germany.
Also, representatives of the agency and rocket developer Ariane Group are trying to refine ground-based systems and flight software. The launch date has not yet been officially announced, but according to some sources, it can be expected no earlier than April 2023.
Despite the fact that the launch of the rocket has been postponed several times, the demand for Ariane 6 is growing. Due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the European Space Agency has cut ties with Roscosmos. It can no longer use the Union to serve its satellites and needs alternatives. Amazon, which has bought 18 flights to launch its own Project Kuiper Internet satellites, also has plans for European rockets.