S.E.A. Datentechnik congratulates on the successful launch of Ariane 6

Milestone in space technology

Ariane 6, the successor to the successful Ariane 5 rocket, represents a significant advance in European space technology. Designed to be more flexible, cost-efficient and competitive, Ariane 6 is offered in two main configurations: Ariane 62 with two boosters and Ariane 64 with four boosters. This new generation of launchers will be used to transport commercial satellites, scientific missions and space probes. ArianeGroup is prime contractor and design authority of the ariane6 launcher system on behalf of the European space Agency.

High-tech upper stage with Vinci engine tested with test bench automation from S.E.A. Datentechnik

At the heart of Ariane 6’s upper stage is the innovative Vinci engine, a cryogenic rocket motor fuelled by liquid hydrogen (LH2) and liquid oxygen (LOX). With the ability to be ignited multiple times, the Vinci engine enables the transport of several satellites into different orbits and supports complex mission profiles. The lightweight, high-strength structure and cryogenic tanks of the upper stage ensure safe operation in the extreme conditions of space.

Test bench tests: A guarantee for safety and reliability

The MCC (Measurement Command and Control Centre) in Lampoldshausen at DLR, which was developed with the help of S.E.A. Datentechnik, Werum, and Cegelc, is designed to control the test stand and record measurement data in order to check the performance and reliability of the upper stage under realistic conditions. Static burn tests of the Vinci engine, extensive cryogenic tests and vibration and acoustic tests ensured the structural integrity and functionality of the upper stage. These rigorous tests were essential to ensure the safety and reliability of Ariane 6 prior to its commercial launch.

Successful first flight

The first flight of Ariane 6 marks a significant milestone in European spaceflight. The successful mission demonstrates the operational readiness of the upper stage and supports the certification of the rocket. The data from the test bench tests have made a decisive contribution to optimising the design and operating procedures of the upper stage.

Cooperation for success

For the development and testing of Ariane 6, ESA is working with an industrial network of several hundred companies in 13 European countries, led by prime contractor ArianeGroup a French-German company. S.E.A. Datentechnik is one the industrial partners. This co-operation ensures that Ariane 6 meets its high requirements and that Europe continues to play a leading role in global space flight.

About S.E.A. Datentechnik

S.E.A. Datentechnik is proud to be part of this ground-breaking project and to make a significant contribution to the successful development of Ariane 6 with our state-of-the-art test benches. Our expertise and commitment to space technology will help to ensure that Europe continues to provide innovative and reliable launchers for space.

For further information, please contact:

Ursula Korten-Schmitz
ursula.korten-schmitz@sea-gmbh.com