Europe's new Ariane 5 ECA launcher could have its payload to geostationary orbit boosted to 10,700kg (23,540lb) by improvements to its solid rocket boosters. They include a nozzle made with new materials, structural dampening to counter booster engine pressure oscillations, and strengthening using a new welding process.
The decision to implement the improvements follows a successful test at the European Space Agency's French Guiana spaceport on 9 November. "With these improvements we will be able to put 200kg more into geostationary transfer orbit," says Jacques Gigou, head of ESA's Ariane production division.
Meanwhile, European launch provider Arianespace cites "four to six outstanding technical actions" as causes for the third delay of the qualification flight of the Ariane 5 ECA. Originally scheduled for June, the launch will now take place in January or February 2005.
Rob Coppinger / London
Source: Flight International
