Europe's space industry is considering a radical overhaul of the Ariane 6 rocket. The European Space Agency (ESA) is exploring options to retrofit the existing design. This move aims to address criticisms of Ariane 6's expendable nature.
The proposal involves turning Ariane 6 into a partially reusable "Franken-rocket." ESA is already funding projects for reusable rocket technology. These include vertical takeoff and landing demonstrations. The agency also incentivizes upgrades for heavier cargo launches.
This potential redesign signals a significant shift in European space policy. It acknowledges the need for reusable technology to compete globally. The immediate response is mixed, with questions about cost and feasibility.
Ariane 6, though debuting soon, still uses expendable technology. This contrasts with the growing trend of reusable rockets. ESA's current efforts to foster new rocket companies and technologies are fragmented.
The next steps involve feasibility studies and funding allocation. ESA, the European Commission, and national governments will need to align their strategies. The future of European space launch capabilities hangs in the balance.
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