What To Know
- A few days before the first launch of Ariane 6, scheduled for July 9, 2024, the European agency Eumetsat surprised by opting for SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket to put its MTG-S1 meteorological satellite into orbit.
- The announcement, made on June 27, comes less than two weeks of the maiden flight of the European launcher scheduled for July 9thThis contract, signed four years ago with Arianespace, was reportedly terminated due to ” exceptional circumstances » not specified according to The galleryPhilippe Baptiste, the president of CNES, expressed his disappointment on LinkedIn, calling the decision ” very disappointing for Europe’s space efforts ” Josef Aschbacher, ESA’s Director General, also expressed his incomprehension at this choice, stressing that Eumetsat had previously already trusted untested European launchers, making this decision all the more surprising.
- The first Ariane 6 flight model on the pad for a wet dress rehearsal on 20 June, the final step before its launch on 9 July.
A few days before the first launch of Ariane 6, scheduled for July 9, 2024, the European agency Eumetsat surprised by opting for SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket to put its MTG-S1 meteorological satellite into orbit.
Misunderstanding: la Falcon 9 instead of Ariane 6
Eumetsatthe European meteorological satellite agency, recently surprised everyone by canceling the launch of its MTG-S1 satellite by the new Ariane 6 rocket, ultimately choosing SpaceX’s Falcon 9. The announcement, made on June 27, comes less than two weeks of the maiden flight of the European launcher scheduled for July 9thThis contract, signed four years ago with Arianespace, was reportedly terminated due to ” exceptional circumstances » not specified according to The galleryPhilippe Baptiste, the president of CNES, expressed his disappointment on LinkedIn, calling the decision ” very disappointing for Europe’s space efforts ” Josef Aschbacher, ESA’s Director General, also expressed his incomprehension at this choice, stressing that Eumetsat had previously already trusted untested European launchers, making this decision all the more surprising.
The first Ariane 6 flight model on the pad for a wet dress rehearsal on 20 June, the final step before its launch on 9 July. Credits: ESA/L. Bourgeon
Political and industrial repercussions
Eumetsat’s decision to choose SpaceX’s Falcon 9 for the launch of the MTG-S1 satellite will naturally have significant political repercussions. According to La Tribune, Germany is said to have played a key role in this decision.despite the opposition of France, thus highlighting the intra-European tensions on space issues. This choice once again highlights the divergences within the European Union concerning space policy and collaboration between Member States. This change of direction by Eumetsat therefore highlights the persistent challenges facing the European space industry. Despite technological progress and considerable investment in the development of new vehicles such as Ariane 6, Europe still struggling to assert itself in the face of fierce competition from SpaceX. SpaceX’s ability to offer reliable and cost-competitive launches makes it difficult for European rockets to maintain their market share. Eumetsat’s decision also highlights the urgent need to strengthen the common space strategy within the European Union. Currently, Europe lacks a coherent policy that prioritises its launchers, unlike the United States, where a law requires the use of American rockets. Such a policy could, however, protect and promote the interests of European vehicles, and ensure their competitiveness and long-term survival.
