CRYOSPACE DELIVERS FIRST ARIANE 5 PLUS TANKS
Cryospace, a joint subsidiary of Air Liquide and EADS LAUNCH VEHICLES, has delivered two major elements of the first flight-standard Ariane 5 "Plus" launcher to the two stage manufacturers. The Ariane 5 Plus program was launched by the European Space Agency in 1998, and is designed to increase the launcher?s payload capacity for a dual-satellite launch into geostationary transfer orbit (GTO) to 10,500 kilograms starting in mid-2002. The current capacity is 6,000 kg.
EADS LAUCH VEHICLES has taken delivery of the propellant tank for the main cryogenic stage, while Astrium GmbH today took delivery of the liquid hydrogen tank to be fitted on the launcher?s new cryogenic upper stage (ESC-A). During 2002, both of these stages will be shipped by sea to the Guiana Space Center in Kourou, French Guiana.
Cryospace is prime contractor for Ariane 5?s cryogenic propellant tanks. Over the past three years, it has simultaneously taken charge of two complex development programs: for the EPC (transition to the "Evolution" version, with liquid oxygen and hydrogen tanks); and the ESC-A (complete development of the brand-new hydrogen tank). Development of these high-tech tanks was based on a cost-reduction strategy designed to enhance Ariane 5?s competitiveness and consolidate its position in the global commercial launch market.
"This delivery reflects Cryospace?s broad-based expertise and commitment," said Paul du Saillant, Managing Director of the company and a member of Air Liquide?s executive committee. "Air Liquide brings its cryogenic products and services expertise to major space projects via Cryospace in Les Mureaux, the Advanced Technologies Division in Sassenage and Air Liquide Spatial Guyane in Kourou. Hydrogen is not only used for space applications, but is also a growth driver for our group, especially in the chemicals and refining industries, and as an alternative source of clean energy."
Philippe Couillard, Chief Executive of EADS LAUNCH VEHICLES, noted "We are very pleased with recent European decisions concerning improvements to Ariane 5, and its enhanced competitiveness; and don?t forget that the ESC-B version is slated to follow the ESC-A stage. Since EADS LAUNCH VEHICLES works closely with Cryospace on cryogenic tanks, our company plays a very active role in these developments."
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