Early combined tests mimic Ariane 6 liftoff

Ariane 6 early combined tests at Latesys in Fos-sur-Mer, in France, have simulated the moment of liftoff when the umbilicals separate from the rocket.

These tests are part of the critical path towards the first flight of Europe’s new Ariane 6 launch vehicle.

Umbilicals supported by ‘cryo-arms’ on the main mast and two mini masts at the base of Ariane 6 fill (or drain tanks) and keep the launch vehicle in an optimal condition right up to the point of liftoff.

At liftoff, pyrotechnic actuators detonate to burst hinges open allowing the umbilicals to safely separate from Ariane 6. The supporting cryo-arms that hold the upper umbilicals then move out horizontally away from the launch vehicle. At the same time, steel doors slam shut on the mini-masts at the base of Ariane 6. This is a highly precise, synchronised sequence.

These tests will validate the mechanical functions and connections of this complex system ahead of more extensive combined tests at Europe’s Spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana which will include the fluidic supplies.

Credits: ESA/CNES/Arianespace

#ESA
#Ariane6
#Rocket

[Talpham]

I would love to work for esa on projects like this in the future

[SteamingSoda]

Quite nice to see details about stuff around the rocket, and not just the launcher itself!

[MinerBat]

Will the Ariane 6 become human rated? We should really have our own manned spacecraft...

[PotteryLife]

Question - What hinges are burst open? 0:50

[arifunf]

Juhu new news from the Ariane Programm 🚀

[mariadaluzmoutinho]

ESA que vídeo incrível!! E fantástico ver estes pormenores, é espantoso é surpreendente!!

[MichaelAye]

I just have one question: Why do the tests seem to be performed at what looks like a cargo container facility?? :)

[mathieupelletier]

🚀Fascinating🚀!!
Anyone know or can explain how “cryo-arms” (umbilicals) work if a launch is interrupted/aborted?

[DC]

Thanks! That's not common to have an insight on the ground equipments related to the launchers while they're also engineering marvels.

[opg]

Hi ESA I have question that currently the Quantum computers are far more faster than any other Super computers are..how these Super Quantum computers can help us to Understand the Universe....????

[MrHichammohsen]

Do you think Ariane 6 will ever be human rated?

[LegioneSacra]

We all know they are launching arianne 6 just to joke about europe space agency landed on europa.