Ariane 6 – in-flight safety and space debris mitigation

Abstract

Ariane 6 is the future large European Launcher launched from the Guiana Space Center (CSG). Besides, Ariane 6 launcher program corresponds to the first full application of the French Space Operations Act from the beginning of an European Launch System development.

This paper summarizes how French Space Operations Act requirements have been finally implemented in the Ariane 6 Launcher System. It addresses hardware systems as well as software solutions, but also specific analysis performed to support compliance with the French Space Operations Act requirements. This paper identifies the definition and design of these different on-board systems contributing to flight safety and space debris mitigation along with their validation. Moreover it details the studies that have been performed to assess Ariane 6 compliance to the requirements of French Space Operations Act.

This document addresses more specifically safety in flight beginning at lift-off and ending with launcher disposal after its main mission. Afterwards it covers also solutions implemented on Ariane 6 launcher and its mission definition in order to mitigate space debris generation.