{
  "id": "arianespace-ariane-6",
  "title": "Ariane 6",
  "maker": "ArianeGroup / Arianespace (ESA programme)",
  "maker_type": "Commercial",
  "kind": "mission",
  "category": "launchers",
  "page": "https://spacemushroom.com/space-products/arianespace-ariane-6/",
  "website": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_what_s_it_made_of",
  "summary": "European heavy launcher with a core stage in aluminium-lithium, carbon-composite P120C booster casings and a carbon fibre fairing.",
  "application": "Ariane 6 is Europe's heavy launcher for institutional and commercial payloads. Its core stage tanks, solid booster casings and fairing show a mix of aluminium-lithium and carbon composites.",
  "story": {
    "headline": "Ariane 6 is Europe's heavy launcher, flown with two or four solid boosters for institutional and commercial payloads.",
    "intro": [
      "Ariane 6 is Europe's heavy launcher for institutional and commercial payloads, and it takes over from Ariane 5. ArianeGroup is prime contractor, Arianespace runs the commercial side, and ESA is the launch system architect. With two boosters, as Ariane 62, it lifts about 10.3 tonnes to low Earth orbit. With four, as Ariane 64, it lifts about 21.6.",
      "The core stage tanks are a lighter mixture of aluminium and lithium. The booster casings are carbon composite, and so is the fairing. Making the rocket takes a network of more than 600 companies in 13 European countries, 350 of them small or medium-sized."
    ],
    "built": [
      {
        "title": "Core stage",
        "text": "The core stage is 32 metres tall and 5.4 metres wide, and weighs 23,000 kg without propellant. Its tanks are a lighter mixture of aluminium and lithium, made by MT Aerospace, and it holds almost 154 tonnes of liquid hydrogen and oxygen. Carbon fibre helium tanks store the gas for pressurising them.",
        "parts": [
          "Core stage structure and propellant load",
          "Main stage propellant tanks",
          "Core and upper stage inter-tank structures and tanks",
          "Cryogenic propellant lines",
          "Helium tanks (carbon fibre)"
        ]
      },
      {
        "title": "Engines and thrust frames",
        "text": "Vulcain 2.1, the core stage engine, burns liquid hydrogen and oxygen. Its nozzle is two large metal sheets laser-welded together. Airbus makes the aluminium thrust frames, and the one for the Vinci upper stage engine is only 11 parts, against more than 1,000 in Ariane 5's structure.",
        "parts": [
          "Vulcain 2.1 engine (x1)",
          "Vulcain 2.1 nozzle",
          "Vulcain 2.1 thrust frame",
          "Vinci thrust frame"
        ]
      },
      {
        "title": "Upper stage",
        "text": "The upper stage carries 30 tonnes of liquid oxygen and hydrogen. Its Vinci engine, rated at 180 kilonewtons, lights with glow plugs instead of an explosive igniter and can ignite up to four times in a single flight. A 10 kg gimbal mechanism from Beyond Gravity steers it.",
        "parts": [
          "Vinci engine (x1, re-ignitable)",
          "Vinci glow-plug igniter",
          "Vinci cardan gimbal mechanism",
          "Upper stage hydrogen tank"
        ]
      },
      {
        "title": "Solid boosters",
        "text": "Each P120C booster is 13.5 metres long and 3.4 metres across and holds about 142 tonnes of solid propellant. Its one-piece case is carbon fibre in pre-impregnated epoxy, wound at Avio's factory in Colleferro. The rear aluminium skirt carries the weight of the whole rocket, up to 860 tonnes at liftoff.",
        "parts": [
          "P120C motor casing",
          "P120C solid rocket motors (x2 on Ariane 62, x4 on Ariane 64)",
          "Booster igniter (27 kg of solid propellant)",
          "Booster forward and rear skirts"
        ]
      },
      {
        "title": "Fairing and adapters",
        "text": "The fairing is 5.4 metres wide and comes 14 or 20 metres tall. Beyond Gravity makes its two halves of carbon fibre composite at Emmen in Switzerland, and a pyrotechnic expansion tube and cord separate them. A carbon dual launch structure lets two satellites fly together.",
        "parts": [
          "Payload fairing halves (20 m and 14 m versions)",
          "Fairing horizontal and vertical separation systems",
          "Dual launch structure",
          "Standard payload adapters (PAF 937, 1194, 1663, 1666)"
        ]
      }
    ],
    "materials": [
      {
        "name": "Aluminium-lithium alloy",
        "mid": "aluminium-lithium",
        "where": "The core stage propellant tanks, a lighter mixture of aluminium and lithium. ESA gives no grade."
      },
      {
        "name": "Carbon fibre",
        "mid": "carbon-fibre",
        "where": "The P120C booster casings, fairing halves, helium tanks and payload adapters."
      },
      {
        "name": "Aluminium",
        "mid": "aluminium",
        "where": "Thrust frames for both engines and structural rings in the lower section of the boosters, in unnamed alloys."
      },
      {
        "name": "Anodised aluminium",
        "mid": "anodized-aluminium",
        "where": "The forward and rear skirts of the boosters, made from plate."
      }
    ],
    "connections": "Vulcain 2.1 powers the core stage, an upgrade of Ariane 5's Vulcain 2, and the restartable Vinci powers the upper stage. The P120C boosters double as the first stage motor of Vega-C. Europropulsion, a joint venture of Avio and ArianeGroup, developed them. Beyond Gravity, formerly RUAG Space, has made the fairing for every Ariane mission since 1979, and MT Aerospace makes the tanks. ESA operated the first flight.",
    "unknown": "Published descriptions do not name the grade of the aluminium-lithium alloy, the exact resin systems of the fairing, adapters and booster cases, or the materials of the upper stage tanks, tank insulation and engines. They also disagree on the thrust of the P120C and Vulcain 2.1, and on whether the fairing includes glass fibre.",
    "facts": [
      {
        "label": "Height",
        "value": "56-62 m depending on payload size"
      },
      {
        "label": "Main stage",
        "value": "32 m tall, 5.4 m wide"
      },
      {
        "label": "Boosters",
        "value": "13.5 m long, 3.4 m diameter"
      },
      {
        "label": "Booster propellant",
        "value": "about 142 t solid propellant each"
      },
      {
        "label": "Upper stage propellant",
        "value": "30 t liquid oxygen and hydrogen"
      },
      {
        "label": "Fairing",
        "value": "5.4 m wide; 14 m or 20 m tall"
      }
    ]
  },
  "specifications": [
    {
      "label": "Height",
      "value": "56-62 m depending on payload size",
      "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_what_s_it_made_of",
      "quote": "stands at 56-62 m high depending on the size of the passenger"
    },
    {
      "label": "Main stage",
      "value": "32 m tall, 5.4 m wide",
      "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_what_s_it_made_of",
      "quote": "At 32 m tall, 5.4 m wide"
    },
    {
      "label": "Boosters",
      "value": "13.5 m long, 3.4 m diameter",
      "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_what_s_it_made_of",
      "quote": "each 13.5 m long and 3.4 m in diameter"
    },
    {
      "label": "Booster propellant",
      "value": "about 142 t solid propellant each",
      "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_what_s_it_made_of",
      "quote": "filled with about 142 tonnes of solid propellant each"
    },
    {
      "label": "Upper stage propellant",
      "value": "30 t liquid oxygen and hydrogen",
      "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_what_s_it_made_of",
      "quote": "fuelled by 30 tonnes of cryogenically cooled liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen"
    },
    {
      "label": "Fairing",
      "value": "5.4 m wide; 14 m or 20 m tall",
      "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_what_s_it_made_of",
      "quote": "available at both 14 m and 20 m tall"
    },
    {
      "label": "Liftoff mass",
      "value": "almost 900 t with payload",
      "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_what_s_it_made_of",
      "quote": "it will weigh almost 900 000 kg (900 tonnes)"
    },
    {
      "label": "Ariane 62 performance",
      "value": "about 4.5 t to GTO or 10.3 t to LEO",
      "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Launch_vehicles/Ariane_6",
      "quote": "Ariane 62 can launch payloads of approximately 4.5 tonnes into geostationary transfer orbit or 10.3 tonnes into low Earth orbit."
    },
    {
      "label": "Ariane 64 performance",
      "value": "about 11.5 t to GTO or 21.6 t to LEO",
      "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Launch_vehicles/Ariane_6",
      "quote": "Ariane 64 can launch payloads of approximately 11.5 tonnes into geostationary transfer orbit and 21.6 tonnes into low Earth orbit."
    },
    {
      "label": "Lower stage (LLPM) propellant",
      "value": "150 t LOX-LH2",
      "source_url": "https://esamultimedia.esa.int/docs/STS/IAC-18,D2,1,2,x42969.pdf",
      "quote": "Lower Stage “LLPM” 150t LOX-LH2"
    },
    {
      "label": "Liftoff mass and thrust, Ariane 62",
      "value": "530 t liftoff mass, 800 t thrust at liftoff",
      "source_url": "https://esamultimedia.esa.int/docs/STS/IAC-18,D2,1,2,x42969.pdf",
      "quote": "530t lift-off mass 800t thrust at lift-off"
    },
    {
      "label": "Liftoff mass and thrust, Ariane 64",
      "value": "860 t liftoff mass, 1500 t thrust at liftoff",
      "source_url": "https://esamultimedia.esa.int/docs/STS/IAC-18,D2,1,2,x42969.pdf",
      "quote": "860t lift-off mass 1500t thrust at lift-off"
    },
    {
      "label": "Core stage dry mass",
      "value": "23,000 kg without propellant",
      "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_what_s_it_made_of",
      "quote": "weighing 23000kg without propellants"
    },
    {
      "label": "Vulcain 2.1 vacuum thrust (ESA 2018)",
      "value": "135 tonnes in vacuum",
      "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_on_the_way_to_flight",
      "quote": "delivering 135 tonnes of thrust in vacuum"
    },
    {
      "label": "Vulcain 2.1 acceptance test",
      "value": "21 July 2020 in France",
      "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_what_s_it_made_of",
      "quote": "The Vulcain 2.1 engine for Ariane 6 performed its acceptance test in France on 21July 2020."
    },
    {
      "label": "P120C nozzle production rate",
      "value": "up to 35 nozzles per year in Le Haillan",
      "source_url": "https://esamultimedia.esa.int/docs/STS/IAC-18,D2,1,2,x42969.pdf",
      "quote": "produce up to 35 nozzles per year for Ariane 6 & VEGA-C solid boosters"
    },
    {
      "label": "Industrial network",
      "value": "more than 600 companies in 13 European countries",
      "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_on_the_way_to_flight",
      "quote": "of more than 600 companies in 13 European countries, including 350 small- and medium-sized enterprises"
    },
    {
      "label": "Launcher assembly building",
      "value": "20 m tall, 112 m long, 41 m wide",
      "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Launch_vehicles/Ariane_6",
      "quote": "The launcher assembly building is 20 m tall, 112 m long, and 41 m wide"
    },
    {
      "label": "Vinci thrust",
      "value": "180 kN",
      "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/The_engines_of_Ariane_6",
      "quote": "180 Kn of thrust for the Vinci cryogenic engine"
    }
  ],
  "features": [
    {
      "text": "Main stage burns liquid hydrogen and oxygen in the Vulcain 2.1 engine",
      "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_what_s_it_made_of",
      "quote": "burns liquid oxygen and hydrogen"
    },
    {
      "text": "Upper stage uses the restartable Vinci engine",
      "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_what_s_it_made_of",
      "quote": "the all-new restartable Vinci engine"
    },
    {
      "text": "Fairing available in two lengths",
      "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_what_s_it_made_of",
      "quote": "available at both 14 m and 20 m tall"
    }
  ],
  "parts": [
    {
      "assembly": "Core stage (main stage)",
      "parts": [
        {
          "part": "Main stage propellant tanks",
          "material": "aluminium-lithium alloy (alloy grade not stated)",
          "form": "tanks",
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "a lighter mixture of aluminium and lithium material",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_what_s_it_made_of",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": "aluminium-lithium"
        },
        {
          "part": "Main stage tank insulation",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "well protected with insulating materials",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_what_s_it_made_of",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null
        },
        {
          "part": "Vulcain 2.1 nozzle",
          "material": null,
          "form": "two large metal sheets laser-welded",
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "built by laser-welding two large sheets of metal together",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_what_s_it_made_of",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null
        }
      ]
    },
    {
      "assembly": "Solid boosters (P120C)",
      "parts": [
        {
          "part": "P120C motor casing",
          "material": "carbon composite fibre (resin not stated)",
          "form": "filament-wound casing",
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "Casings for the P120C boosters are formed from specially developed carbon composite fibre",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_on_the_way_to_flight",
          "profile": "carbon-fibre",
          "mid": "carbon-fibre"
        }
      ]
    },
    {
      "assembly": "Fairing",
      "parts": [
        {
          "part": "Payload fairing (ESA description)",
          "material": "carbon-glass fibre composite",
          "form": "one-piece shell",
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "made in one piece from carbon-glass fibre composite",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_what_s_it_made_of",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": "carbon-glass-fibre-composite"
        },
        {
          "part": "Nose fairing (user manual description)",
          "material": "carbon fiber (matrix not stated)",
          "form": "two half-shells",
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "two half-shell carbon fiber structure",
          "source_url": "https://sky-brokers.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Arianespace-Ariane-6-user-manual.pdf",
          "profile": "carbon-fibre",
          "mid": "carbon-fibre"
        }
      ]
    },
    {
      "assembly": "Dual launch structure",
      "parts": [
        {
          "part": "Dual launch structure",
          "material": "carbon (fibre composite implied by the word \"carbon structure\"; matrix not stated)",
          "form": "load-bearing conical and cylindrical shells",
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "load bearing carbon structure, comprising a conical adapter",
          "source_url": "https://sky-brokers.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Arianespace-Ariane-6-user-manual.pdf",
          "profile": "carbon-fibre",
          "mid": "carbon-fibre"
        }
      ]
    },
    {
      "assembly": "Upper stage",
      "parts": [
        {
          "part": "Upper stage tanks and Vinci engine",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "fuelled by 30 tonnes of cryogenically cooled liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_what_s_it_made_of",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null
        }
      ]
    },
    {
      "assembly": "Engines and engine parts",
      "parts": [
        {
          "part": "Vulcain 2.1 engine (x1)",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: ArianeGroup",
          "quote": "this rocket engine uses liquid oxygen and hydrogen as fuel, providing more than 1370 kN of thrust",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/The_engines_of_Ariane_6",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Core stage main engine, liquid oxygen and hydrogen",
          "specs": [
            {
              "label": "Burn",
              "value": "468 s; over 327 kg/s of propellant",
              "quote": "Vulcain 2.1 consumes over 327 kg/s of fuel a second and does this for 468 seconds",
              "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/The_engines_of_Ariane_6"
            },
            {
              "label": "Hydrogen turbopump",
              "value": "33,000 rpm, 15 MW",
              "quote": "The liquid hydrogen turbopump alone turns at 33 000 revolutions per minute and produces 15 megaWatts of power",
              "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/The_engines_of_Ariane_6"
            },
            {
              "label": "Ignition",
              "value": "from burners under the core stage on the launch pad",
              "quote": "Burners underneath the core stage ignite the engine.",
              "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/The_engines_of_Ariane_6"
            },
            {
              "label": "Nozzle extension cooling (GKN Aerospace)",
              "value": "over a thousand small cooling channels in a millimetre-thin metallic wall, cooled by liquid hydrogen",
              "quote": "Over a thousand small cooling channels run through the nozzle’s millimetre-thin wall.",
              "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_Sweden"
            },
            {
              "label": "Nozzle construction",
              "value": "laser-welded sheets with cooling channels (alloy not stated)",
              "quote": "built by laser-welding two large sheets of metal together and creating ‘cooling channels’ inside them",
              "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_what_s_it_made_of"
            }
          ]
        },
        {
          "part": "Vinci engine (x1, re-ignitable)",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: ArianeGroup",
          "quote": "It can ignite up to four times in a single Ariane 6 flight",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/The_engines_of_Ariane_6",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Upper stage engine, can fire up to four times",
          "specs": [
            {
              "label": "Thrust",
              "value": "180 kN",
              "quote": "180 Kn of thrust for the Vinci cryogenic engine",
              "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/The_engines_of_Ariane_6"
            }
          ]
        },
        {
          "part": "Vulcain 2.1 gas generator (3D printed)",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "a 3D-printed gas generator",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_on_the_way_to_flight",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Drives the turbopumps"
        },
        {
          "part": "Vulcain 2.1 oxygen tank pressurisation heater",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "and a heater for oxygen tank pressurisation",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_on_the_way_to_flight",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Heats gas to pressurize the oxygen tank"
        },
        {
          "part": "Hydrogen turbopumps (Vulcain 2.1 and Vinci)",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: ArianeGroup",
          "quote": "ArianeGroup created the hydrogen turbopumps that feed fuel to the engines, and gas generators, which help power the system.",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_France",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Feed liquid hydrogen to the engines"
        },
        {
          "part": "Liquid oxygen turbopumps (Vulcain 2.1 and Vinci)",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: Avio (transfer to ArianeGroup France in progress)",
          "quote": "Avio provides the liquid oxygen turbopumps for the Vinci and Vulcain 2.1 engines for Ariane 6.",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_Italy",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Feed liquid oxygen; Vinci pump has a dynamic seal package between 600 C hydrogen gas and cold LOX"
        },
        {
          "part": "Engine turbines (Vulcain 2.1 and Vinci)",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: GKN Aerospace",
          "quote": "the company provides the turbines and the nozzle extension for the Vulcain 2.1 rocket engine and the turbines for the Vinci engine",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_Sweden",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Drive the fuel pumps"
        },
        {
          "part": "Thrust chambers (Vulcain 2.1 and Vinci)",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: ArianeGroup (Germany)",
          "quote": "The German branch manufactures the thrust chamber for both the Vinci and Vulcain 2.1 engines.",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_Germany",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Combustion chambers built by the German branch of ArianeGroup"
        },
        {
          "part": "Engine chamber valves (Vulcain 2.1 and Vinci)",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: Safran Aero Boosters",
          "quote": "Safran Aero Boosters supplies chamber valves for both Ariane 6 engines.",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_Belgium",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Control hydrogen and oxygen into the combustion chamber"
        },
        {
          "part": "Engine valves and pressure regulators",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: Safran (Turin, former Microtecnica site)",
          "quote": "produces valves and pressure regulators for the Vinci and Vulcain engines that power the Ariane 6 upper and main stage",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_Italy",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Regulate cryogenic hydrogen pressure at about -260 C"
        },
        {
          "part": "Fuel and propellant valves",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: TestFuchs",
          "quote": "TestFuchs provides valves for fuel and propellant.",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_Austria",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Valves for fuel and propellant lines"
        },
        {
          "part": "Vulcain 2.1 starter and igniter",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: APP (Aerospace Propulsion Products, now part of ArianeGroup)",
          "quote": "APP’s starter provides hot gas to kick-start the turbo-pump.",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_the_Netherlands",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Solid-propellant starter spins the turbopump; igniter lights the gas generator"
        },
        {
          "part": "Vinci glow-plug igniter",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: APP (Aerospace Propulsion Products, now part of ArianeGroup)",
          "quote": "instead APP designed an ignition system that uses glow plugs",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_the_Netherlands",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Non-explosive ignition system for the upper stage engine"
        },
        {
          "part": "Vulcain 2.1 thrust frame",
          "material": "aluminium (alloy not stated)",
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: Airbus (Netherlands)",
          "quote": "Airbus Netherlands supplies two thrust frames for each Ariane 6, one for the main Vulcain engine, and one for the upper stage Vinci engine.",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_the_Netherlands",
          "profile": "aluminium",
          "mid": "aluminium",
          "function": "Aluminium frame that holds the engine and spreads thrust into the core stage",
          "specs": [
            {
              "label": "Size and mass",
              "value": "4,690 kg, 5.1 m tall, 5.4 m diameter",
              "quote": "The main stage thrust frame, weighs 4690 kg and is 5.1 m tall and 5.4 m in diameter.",
              "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_the_Netherlands"
            },
            {
              "label": "Fixing",
              "value": "16 bolts secure Vulcain 2.1 to its frame",
              "quote": "requires only 16 bolts to secure Vulcain 2.1 to its thrust frame",
              "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_the_Netherlands"
            }
          ]
        },
        {
          "part": "Vinci thrust frame",
          "material": "aluminium (alloy not stated)",
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: Airbus (Netherlands)",
          "quote": "the upper stage thrust frame is made up of just 11 parts – compared to over 1000 parts in the Ariane 5 structure",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_the_Netherlands",
          "profile": "aluminium",
          "mid": "aluminium",
          "function": "Frame for the upper stage engine; 11 parts, 330 kg"
        },
        {
          "part": "Vinci cardan gimbal mechanism",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: Beyond Gravity (Austria)",
          "quote": "Beyond Gravity is also responsible for the Vinci cardan gimbal mechanism – a 10 kg piece of tech",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_Austria",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Steers the upper stage engine, a 10 kg unit"
        },
        {
          "part": "Vulcain 2.1 exhaust-line thermal protection (TPLE) and flexible thermal protection",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: Beyond Gravity (Austria)",
          "quote": "Beyond Gravity provides the Vulcain 2.1 engine Thermal Protection Exhaust Lines (TPLE) and the Flexible Thermal Protection (FTP)",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_Austria",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Heat insulation against engine heat up to 1500 C"
        },
        {
          "part": "Dry-film lubricated spherical bearings in the engine supports",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: Nammo Ireland",
          "quote": "The company also manufactures dry-film lubricated spherical bearings that are used in the supports.",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_Ireland",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Support bearings for both engines"
        }
      ]
    },
    {
      "assembly": "Core stage (lower liquid propulsion module)",
      "parts": [
        {
          "part": "Core stage structure and propellant load",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "At 32 m tall, 5.4 m wide and weighing 23000kg without propellants",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_what_s_it_made_of",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Main stage: 32 m tall, 5.4 m wide",
          "specs": [
            {
              "label": "Propellant",
              "value": "almost 154 tonnes of liquid hydrogen and oxygen",
              "quote": "the liquid propellant tanks that house the almost 154 tonnes of liquid hydrogen and oxygen fuel",
              "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_what_s_it_made_of"
            }
          ]
        },
        {
          "part": "Core and upper stage inter-tank structures and tanks",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: MT Aerospace",
          "quote": "MT Aerospace is responsible for making the upper and core inter-tank structures, the upper and core stage tanks, parts of the Vulcain 2.1 engine",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_Germany",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Structure between the tanks and the tank shells"
        },
        {
          "part": "Cryogenic propellant lines",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: Air Liquide",
          "quote": "built the pipes that carry this super cold fuel to the engines",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_France",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Pipes that carry liquid hydrogen and oxygen to the engines"
        },
        {
          "part": "Helium tanks (carbon fibre)",
          "material": "carbon fibre (resin not stated)",
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: Enrichment Technology Company",
          "quote": "designed, developed, qualified and manufactures the carbon fibre helium tanks for Ariane 6",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_Germany",
          "profile": "carbon-fibre",
          "mid": "carbon-fibre",
          "function": "Pressurant storage"
        },
        {
          "part": "Level conditioner units (about 25 per vehicle)",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: Kongsberg",
          "quote": "Each Ariane 6 typically contains 25 level conditioner units.",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_Norway",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Measure liquid oxygen and hydrogen levels in the tanks"
        },
        {
          "part": "Thrust vector control systems (core stage, upper stage, boosters)",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: SABCA",
          "quote": "SABCA makes sure rockets stay on the right path by building the Thrust Vector Control systems",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_Belgium",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Direct the exhaust of each engine"
        },
        {
          "part": "Torque motors of the low-liquid thrust vector actuation system (Vulcain 2.1)",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: ICPE Electric motors",
          "quote": "ICPE Electric motors provides small torque motors that help move Ariane 6’s main Vulcain 2.1 engine",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_Romania",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Limited-angle torque motors steer the main engine through hydraulics"
        }
      ]
    },
    {
      "assembly": "Upper stage (upper liquid propulsion module)",
      "parts": [
        {
          "part": "Auxiliary propulsion unit (APU)",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "a small system that plays a vital role by pressurising the fuel tanks during flight and providing additional thrust on demand",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_what_s_it_made_of",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Pressurizes the tanks in flight and gives extra thrust; needed for Vinci restarts"
        },
        {
          "part": "Upper stage thermal insulation tents, membranes and conditioning bags",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: Beyond Gravity (Austria)",
          "quote": "Beyond Gravity provides ‘tent’ insulation to protect the Vinci Intermediate Thrust Frame (VITF), membranes to protect the electronics, and conditioning bags",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_Austria",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Keep gases and electronics at working temperature"
        },
        {
          "part": "Upper stage hydrogen tank",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: MT Aerospace",
          "quote": "MT-Aerospace – one of the main industrial partners of ArianeGroup on the Ariane 6 project – has delivered the first hydrogen tanks",
          "source_url": "https://esamultimedia.esa.int/docs/STS/IAC-18,D2,1,2,x42969.pdf",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "First tanks delivered to Bremen in April 2018"
        }
      ]
    },
    {
      "assembly": "Solid boosters (ESR, P120C)",
      "parts": [
        {
          "part": "P120C solid rocket motors (x2 on Ariane 62, x4 on Ariane 64)",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: Europropulsion (joint venture of Avio and ArianeGroup)",
          "quote": "The boosters are developed by Europropulsion, owned by Avio and ArianeGroup",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/The_engines_of_Ariane_6",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Boost stage, shared with Vega-C",
          "specs": [
            {
              "label": "Propellant and burn",
              "value": "142,000 kg of solid propellant, 130 s of operation",
              "quote": "142 000 kg of solid propellant 130 seconds of operation",
              "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/The_engines_of_Ariane_6"
            },
            {
              "label": "Thrust (ESA engines story)",
              "value": "3500 kN",
              "quote": "3500 kN of thrust",
              "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/The_engines_of_Ariane_6"
            },
            {
              "label": "Maximum thrust (ESA made-of story)",
              "value": "about 4500 kN each",
              "quote": "each providing about 4500 kN of maximum thrust",
              "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_what_s_it_made_of"
            }
          ]
        },
        {
          "part": "P120C case (refines the existing carbon-fibre row)",
          "material": "carbon fibre in pre-impregnated epoxy",
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: Avio (Colleferro)",
          "quote": "P120C’s case is made of carbon-fibre, built from pre-impregnated epoxy sheets through filament winding and automatic fabric deposition",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_Italy",
          "profile": "carbon-fibre",
          "mid": "carbon-fibre",
          "function": "One-segment carbon-fibre case wound at Avio's Colleferro factory"
        },
        {
          "part": "P120C nozzle",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: ArianeGroup (Le Haillan)",
          "quote": "The booster nozzles are produced at an ArianeGroup site in Le Haillan, near Bordeaux.",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_France",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Withstands up to 3000 C; made in Le Haillan",
          "specs": [
            {
              "label": "Temperature",
              "value": "withstands up to 3000 C",
              "quote": "The nozzles have to withstand heat of up to 3000°C.",
              "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_France"
            }
          ]
        },
        {
          "part": "Solid propellant charge",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: Regulus",
          "quote": "The explosive powder for the boosters is mixed by Regulus",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_France",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Propellant powder mixed at Europe's Spaceport"
        },
        {
          "part": "Booster igniter (27 kg of solid propellant)",
          "material": "carbon-fibre composite and aluminium",
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: Nammo Raufoss Space",
          "quote": "The igniter’s newly-developed hardware is made of carbon-fibre composite and aluminium",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_Norway",
          "profile": "carbon-fibre",
          "mid": "carbon-fibre",
          "function": "Small rocket motor that starts booster combustion"
        },
        {
          "part": "Booster separation rocket motors",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: Nammo Raufoss Space",
          "quote": "small separation rocket motors that push the boosters away from the main launcher once they have run out of fuel",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_Norway",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Push the spent boosters away from the core"
        },
        {
          "part": "Booster attachment and release mechanisms",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: Kongsberg",
          "quote": "Kongsberg provides the booster attachment and release mechanisms, level conditioners and optical safety barriers",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_Norway",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Hold each booster to the core and release it after about two minutes"
        },
        {
          "part": "Booster nose cap and booster attachments",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: APCO Technologies",
          "quote": "provide the booster nose cap as well as the booster attachments",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_Switzerland",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Top cap and attach points that carry thrust to the core stage"
        },
        {
          "part": "Booster forward and rear skirts",
          "material": "aluminium plate, anodized (alloy not stated)",
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: ATC Space",
          "quote": "supplying the top and bottom protective enclosure for the boosters, known as the forward and rear skirts",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_Czechia",
          "profile": "anodized-aluminium",
          "mid": "anodized-aluminium",
          "function": "Aluminium skirts; the rear skirt carries the weight of the rocket",
          "specs": [
            {
              "label": "Rear skirt load",
              "value": "bears the weight of the entire rocket, up to 860 tonnes at liftoff",
              "quote": "needs to bear the weight of the entire rocket – up to 860 tonnes at liftoff",
              "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_Czechia"
            },
            {
              "label": "Booster size",
              "value": "22 m long, 3.4 m diameter (equipped solid rocket)",
              "quote": "are 22 metres long and have a diameter of 3.4 metres",
              "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_Czechia"
            }
          ]
        },
        {
          "part": "Booster conical upper structure",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: Airbus (Spain)",
          "quote": "Airbus in Spain developed the upper – conical part, of the boosters",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_Spain",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Upper conical part of each booster"
        },
        {
          "part": "BACO L-Square and Upper Cover assemblies",
          "material": "aluminium (alloy not stated)",
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: Sonaca (Belgium and Romania)",
          "quote": "These assemblies include aluminium components that are stretched and machined in Belgium at Sonaca’s headquarters before being assembled in Romania.",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_Romania",
          "profile": "aluminium",
          "mid": "aluminium",
          "function": "Structural rings in the lower section of the boosters"
        },
        {
          "part": "Carbon-fibre protective covers for sensors (about 30 parts)",
          "material": "carbon fibre (resin not stated)",
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: Sonaca Romania",
          "quote": "Around thirty carbon-fibre parts are manufactured at their Romanian facility.",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_Romania",
          "profile": "carbon-fibre",
          "mid": "carbon-fibre",
          "function": "Composite caps over sensors"
        },
        {
          "part": "P120C motor case",
          "material": "carbon fibre in pre-impregnated epoxy",
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: Avio (Colleferro)",
          "quote": "automatic fabric deposition in one segment at Avio’s Colleferro rocket factory near Rome, Italy",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_Italy",
          "profile": "carbon-fibre",
          "mid": "carbon-fibre",
          "function": "One-segment carbon-fibre case made at Avio's Colleferro factory; adds the epoxy prepreg detail to the current carbon-fibre row",
          "specs": [
            {
              "label": "Case construction",
              "value": "carbon-fibre from pre-impregnated epoxy sheets, filament winding, in one segment",
              "quote": "P120C’s case is made of carbon-fibre, built from pre-impregnated epoxy sheets through filament winding",
              "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_Italy"
            }
          ]
        }
      ]
    },
    {
      "assembly": "Fairing, adapters and dual launch structure",
      "parts": [
        {
          "part": "Payload fairing halves (20 m and 14 m versions)",
          "material": "carbon fibre (resin not stated)",
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: Beyond Gravity (Switzerland, formerly RUAG Space)",
          "quote": "Manufactured by Beyond Gravity at its Emmen site in Switzerland, these indispensable launcher parts come in two variants, 20 or 14 metres tall",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_Switzerland",
          "profile": "carbon-fibre",
          "mid": "carbon-fibre",
          "function": "Two half-shells, each made in one piece at Emmen",
          "specs": [
            {
              "label": "Mass",
              "value": "2.6 tonnes (20 m) and 1.8 tonnes (14 m)",
              "quote": "The larger fairing type weighs in at 2.6 tonnes, the smaller 1.8 tonnes",
              "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_Switzerland"
            }
          ]
        },
        {
          "part": "Fairing horizontal and vertical separation systems",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "An horizontal one (HSS) made of a pyrotechnical expansion tube which connects the fairing to the Upper Liquid Propulsion Module (ULPM)",
          "source_url": "https://sky-brokers.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Arianespace-Ariane-6-user-manual.pdf",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Pyrotechnic expansion tube joins fairing to the upper stage; pyrotechnic cord splits the halves"
        },
        {
          "part": "Dual launch structure separation system and springs",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "Separation of the dual launch structure is achieved by means of a HSS which cuts the dual launch structure along a horizontal plane",
          "source_url": "https://sky-brokers.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Arianespace-Ariane-6-user-manual.pdf",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Cuts the dual launch structure and pushes it clear; heights 7.8 m, 8.8 m, 9.8 m",
          "specs": [
            {
              "label": "Heights",
              "value": "7.8 m, 8.8 m and 9.8 m",
              "quote": "Three heights of Dual Launch Structure are available: 7.8 m, 8.8 m and 9.8 m.",
              "source_url": "https://sky-brokers.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Arianespace-Ariane-6-user-manual.pdf"
            }
          ]
        },
        {
          "part": "Standard payload adapters (PAF 937, 1194, 1663, 1666)",
          "material": "carbon structure (fibre and matrix not stated)",
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: Airbus (Spain)",
          "quote": "Off-the-shelf adapters, with separation interface diameter of 937 mm, 1,194 mm, 1,663 mm (TBC) and 1,666 mm are available.",
          "source_url": "https://sky-brokers.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Arianespace-Ariane-6-user-manual.pdf",
          "profile": "carbon-fibre",
          "mid": "carbon-fibre",
          "function": "Carbon structures with clamp-band or pyrotechnic-nut separation",
          "specs": [
            {
              "label": "Construction",
              "value": "Carbon structure; clamp-band separation systems",
              "quote": "Carbon structure Height: 448 mm (TBC) Max mass: 50 kg (TBC)",
              "source_url": "https://sky-brokers.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Arianespace-Ariane-6-user-manual.pdf"
            }
          ]
        },
        {
          "part": "Main-stage to upper-stage interface structure and launch vehicle adapter (LVA)",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: Airbus (Spain)",
          "quote": "the interface structure that connects the main stage and upper stage, and the Launch Vehicle Adapter",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_Spain",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Skeletal structures that join the stages"
        },
        {
          "part": "Payload carriers for small satellites (under 200 kg)",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": null,
          "quote": "Payload carriers allow small satellites lighter than 200 kg to ride 'piggyback' on the launch of the main payload",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Launch_vehicles/Ariane_6",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Piggyback adapters from the L3 initiative"
        }
      ]
    },
    {
      "assembly": "Avionics, power and safety",
      "parts": [
        {
          "part": "Centralised multi-functional units (CMFU, x4) and pyrotechnical firing units (PFU, x4)",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: Airbus (Spain)",
          "quote": "Four CMFUs and four PFUs are supplied for every Ariane 6, a total of about 100 kg of electronics per launcher.",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_Spain",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Power distribution, onboard computing, engine actuator control and pyro timing"
        },
        {
          "part": "Electrical wiring",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: Airbus (Spain)",
          "quote": "supplying 90% of Ariane 6's electrical wiring",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_Spain",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "About 90 percent of the harness"
        },
        {
          "part": "Inertial guidance unit, telemetry equipment and radar transponders",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: Safran",
          "quote": "Safran’s inertial guidance unit keeps Ariane 6 on track throughout its mission.",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_France",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Navigation and flight data to the ground"
        },
        {
          "part": "Batteries",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: Airbus (France)",
          "quote": "Airbus in France contributed the rocket’s batteries, which provide electricity to its systems during flight.",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_France",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Commercial off-the-shelf cells qualified for space"
        },
        {
          "part": "Data network switch chips (Time-Triggered Ethernet)",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: TTTech Computertechnik",
          "quote": "TTTech supplies chips for the rocket’s computer network",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_Austria",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Computer network backbone"
        },
        {
          "part": "Range safeguard system electronics",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: Thales Alenia Space (Belgium)",
          "quote": "The company is responsible for Ariane 6’s range safeguard system.",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_Belgium",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Initiates the destruct command if the launcher veers off course"
        },
        {
          "part": "Telemetry transmitters",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: Thales Alenia Space (Spain)",
          "quote": "Thales Alenia Space developed the transmitters that send data back to Earth.",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_Spain",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Send flight data to the ground"
        },
        {
          "part": "Telemetry antenna",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: Sener",
          "quote": "development of its telemetry antenna that transmits data during the rocket's ascent",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_Spain",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Transmits data during ascent"
        },
        {
          "part": "Video telemetry kit (VIKI) with six cameras",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: Réaltra",
          "quote": "Réaltra builds the Video Telemetry Kit known as VIKI, that delivers the live video feed throughout the launcher mission via six cameras",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_Ireland",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Live video during the mission"
        },
        {
          "part": "OptoPyro optical safety barrier",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: Kongsberg",
          "quote": "Kongsberg supplies Ariane 6’s optical safety barrier",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_Norway",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Fibre-optic barrier that stops accidental firing of the self-destruct pyrotechnics"
        },
        {
          "part": "Mechanical safety barriers and safe-and-arm elements",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: Nammo Raufoss Space",
          "quote": "Nammo also supplies elements for the safe-and-arm device that complements Kongberg’s OptyPyro.",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_Norway",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Complement the optical barrier"
        },
        {
          "part": "Fuelling umbilical connectors and wiring brackets",
          "material": null,
          "form": null,
          "finish": null,
          "standard": null,
          "hardware_ref": "Supplier: Eaton (formerly Souriau); Amphenol",
          "quote": "Eaton, formerly Souriau, for example, created the connectors that link the rocket to the ground systems during fuelling and preparation.",
          "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_France",
          "profile": null,
          "mid": null,
          "function": "Connectors that disconnect at liftoff; lightweight brackets and pipe clamps"
        }
      ]
    }
  ],
  "materials": [
    {
      "id": "aluminium-lithium",
      "name": "aluminium-lithium alloy (alloy grade not stated)",
      "material_page": null
    },
    {
      "id": "carbon-fibre",
      "name": "carbon fibre in pre-impregnated epoxy",
      "material_page": "https://spacemushroom.com/profiles/carbon-fibre/"
    },
    {
      "id": "carbon-glass-fibre-composite",
      "name": "carbon-glass fibre composite",
      "material_page": null
    },
    {
      "id": "aluminium",
      "name": "aluminium (alloy not stated)",
      "material_page": "https://spacemushroom.com/profiles/aluminium/"
    },
    {
      "id": "anodized-aluminium",
      "name": "aluminium plate, anodized (alloy not stated)",
      "material_page": "https://spacemushroom.com/profiles/anodized-aluminium/"
    }
  ],
  "standards": [],
  "relations": [
    {
      "type": "carries",
      "target": "Vulcain 2.1 engine",
      "target_slug": "arianegroup-vulcain-2-1",
      "note": "Core stage: one engine, liquid oxygen and hydrogen (batch2 draft entry arianegroup-vulcain-2-1)",
      "quote": "The core stage is powered by the liquid-fuelled Vulcain 2.1 – an upgraded engine derived from Ariane 5’s Vulcain 2",
      "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Launch_vehicles/Ariane_6"
    },
    {
      "type": "carries",
      "target": "Vinci engine",
      "target_slug": "arianegroup-vinci",
      "note": "Upper stage: one re-ignitable engine (batch2 draft entry arianegroup-vinci)",
      "quote": "The upper stage is powered by the reignitable Vinci engine fuelled by cryogenic liquid oxygen and hydrogen.",
      "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Launch_vehicles/Ariane_6"
    },
    {
      "type": "carries",
      "target": "P120C solid rocket motor",
      "target_slug": null,
      "note": "Two (Ariane 62) or four (Ariane 64) boosters; common with Vega-C",
      "quote": "Two or four P120C solid-fuel boosters for Ariane 6, common with Vega-C, will be strapped on to provide thrust at liftoff.",
      "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_on_the_way_to_flight"
    },
    {
      "type": "heritage_of",
      "target": "Vulcain 2 (Ariane 5)",
      "target_slug": null,
      "note": "Vulcain 2.1 is an upgrade of Ariane 5's Vulcain 2",
      "quote": "The Vulcain 2.1 engine is an upgraded version of the Vulcain that powered the Ariane 5.",
      "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_what_s_it_made_of"
    },
    {
      "type": "successor_of",
      "target": "Ariane 5",
      "target_slug": null,
      "note": "Ariane 6 takes over from Ariane 5",
      "quote": "Ariane 6 is the latest in the Ariane rocket series, taking over from Ariane 5",
      "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_what_s_it_made_of"
    },
    {
      "type": "built_on",
      "target": "Vega-C (shared P120C motor)",
      "target_slug": null,
      "note": "The same motor is the first stage of Vega-C",
      "quote": "The P120C also ‘doubles up’ as the first stage motor of the Vega-C rocket",
      "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_what_s_it_made_of"
    },
    {
      "type": "supplied_by",
      "target": "ArianeGroup",
      "target_slug": null,
      "note": "Prime contractor and design authority; engines, core stage assembly",
      "quote": "Industries across Europe are in charge of building the launch vehicle and its components, with ArianeGroup as prime contractor and design authority.",
      "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Launch_vehicles/Ariane_6"
    },
    {
      "type": "supplied_by",
      "target": "Europropulsion (Avio and ArianeGroup)",
      "target_slug": null,
      "note": "Developed the P120C motor",
      "quote": "Europropulsion developed the P120C solid rocket motor, as well as its successor, P160C",
      "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_France"
    },
    {
      "type": "supplied_by",
      "target": "Avio",
      "target_slug": null,
      "note": "Colleferro: P120C case and LOX turbopumps",
      "quote": "Avio provides the liquid oxygen turbopumps for the Vinci and Vulcain 2.1 engines for Ariane 6.",
      "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_Italy"
    },
    {
      "type": "supplied_by",
      "target": "MT Aerospace",
      "target_slug": null,
      "note": "Inter-tank structures, tanks, engine parts, booster skirts",
      "quote": "MT Aerospace is responsible for making the upper and core inter-tank structures, the upper and core stage tanks, parts of the Vulcain 2.1 engine",
      "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_Germany"
    },
    {
      "type": "supplied_by",
      "target": "Airbus",
      "target_slug": null,
      "note": "Thrust frames, structures, avionics units, wiring and batteries (see components)",
      "quote": "Airbus Netherlands supplies two thrust frames for each Ariane 6, one for the main Vulcain engine, and one for the upper stage Vinci engine.",
      "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_the_Netherlands"
    },
    {
      "type": "supplied_by",
      "target": "Safran",
      "target_slug": null,
      "note": "Chamber valves, valves and regulators, inertial guidance unit",
      "quote": "Safran Aero Boosters supplies chamber valves for both Ariane 6 engines.",
      "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_Belgium"
    },
    {
      "type": "supplied_by",
      "target": "Beyond Gravity (formerly RUAG Space)",
      "target_slug": null,
      "note": "Payload fairing; thermal protection; Vinci gimbal",
      "quote": "Beyond Gravity Switzerland, formerly known as RUAG Space, has supplied the payload fairings for all Ariane missions since the rocket’s inaugural flight in 1979",
      "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_Switzerland"
    },
    {
      "type": "supplied_by",
      "target": "GKN Aerospace",
      "target_slug": null,
      "note": "Engine turbines and Vulcain 2.1 nozzle extension",
      "quote": "the company provides the turbines and the nozzle extension for the Vulcain 2.1 rocket engine and the turbines for the Vinci engine",
      "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_Sweden"
    },
    {
      "type": "supplied_by",
      "target": "SABCA",
      "target_slug": null,
      "note": "Thrust vector control systems",
      "quote": "SABCA makes sure rockets stay on the right path by building the Thrust Vector Control systems",
      "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_Belgium"
    },
    {
      "type": "supplied_by",
      "target": "Kongsberg",
      "target_slug": null,
      "note": "Booster attachments, level conditioners, OptoPyro",
      "quote": "Kongsberg provides the booster attachment and release mechanisms, level conditioners and optical safety barriers",
      "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_Norway"
    },
    {
      "type": "supplied_by",
      "target": "Nammo",
      "target_slug": null,
      "note": "Booster igniters and separation motors; bearings",
      "quote": "Nammo Raufoss Space provides the igniters for Ariane 6’s solid rocket motors",
      "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_Norway"
    },
    {
      "type": "supplied_by",
      "target": "APCO Technologies",
      "target_slug": null,
      "note": "Booster nose cap and attachments",
      "quote": "provide the booster nose cap as well as the booster attachments",
      "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_Switzerland"
    },
    {
      "type": "supplied_by",
      "target": "ATC Space",
      "target_slug": null,
      "note": "Booster forward and rear skirts",
      "quote": "supplying the top and bottom protective enclosure for the boosters, known as the forward and rear skirts",
      "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_Czechia"
    },
    {
      "type": "supplied_by",
      "target": "Sonaca",
      "target_slug": null,
      "note": "Booster structural rings and carbon-fibre sensor covers",
      "quote": "These assemblies include aluminium components that are stretched and machined in Belgium at Sonaca’s headquarters before being assembled in Romania.",
      "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_Romania"
    },
    {
      "type": "supplied_by",
      "target": "Air Liquide",
      "target_slug": null,
      "note": "Cryogenic propellant lines",
      "quote": "built the pipes that carry this super cold fuel to the engines",
      "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_France"
    },
    {
      "type": "supplied_by",
      "target": "APP (Aerospace Propulsion Products)",
      "target_slug": null,
      "note": "Engine igniters and starters",
      "quote": "APP’s starter provides hot gas to kick-start the turbo-pump.",
      "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_the_Netherlands"
    },
    {
      "type": "supplied_by",
      "target": "Thales Alenia Space",
      "target_slug": null,
      "note": "Range safeguard system, power electronics (Belgium) and transmitters (Spain)",
      "quote": "Thales Alenia Space developed the transmitters that send data back to Earth.",
      "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_Spain"
    },
    {
      "type": "supplied_by",
      "target": "TTTech",
      "target_slug": null,
      "note": "Computer network chips",
      "quote": "TTTech supplies chips for the rocket’s computer network",
      "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_Austria"
    },
    {
      "type": "supplied_by",
      "target": "Regulus",
      "target_slug": null,
      "note": "Mixes the booster propellant at the spaceport",
      "quote": "The explosive powder for the boosters is mixed by Regulus",
      "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_made_in_France"
    },
    {
      "type": "operated_by",
      "target": "Arianespace",
      "target_slug": null,
      "note": "Commercial exploitation of Ariane 6",
      "quote": "the commercial exploitation of Ariane 6 is run by Arianespace",
      "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_a_European_cooperation"
    },
    {
      "type": "operated_by",
      "target": "ESA",
      "target_slug": null,
      "note": "Launch system architect; operator of the first flight",
      "quote": "The Agency is also the operator during Ariane 6's first flight.",
      "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Ariane/Ariane_6_a_European_cooperation"
    },
    {
      "type": "operated_by",
      "target": "CNES",
      "target_slug": null,
      "note": "Built, runs and maintains the launch zone in French Guiana",
      "quote": "France’s space agency, CNES, built, runs and maintains the Ariane 6 launch facilities at Europe’s Spaceport in French Guiana.",
      "source_url": "https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Transportation/Launch_vehicles/Ariane_6"
    }
  ],
  "not_published": "Al-Li grade not named; upper-stage tank, Vinci, Vulcain 2.1 and insulation materials not stated; first flight date not sourced (the manual copy read says 2020, which is outdated); the manual is a third-party hosted copy of an early issue and ESA and the manual differ on fairing (carbon-glass vs carbon fibre); thrust and payload figures not captured. More detail: Component and supplier data come from ESA's 'Ariane 6 - made in...' country series and engine story, an ArianeGroup IAC-2018 paper, and a third-party copy of the early Ariane 6 User's Manual (Issue 1). Not stated in the pages read: alloy grade of the Al-Li tanks and the metal of the nozzle extension, resin systems of the fairing, adapters and P120C case beyond 'pre-impregnated epoxy', Vinci and Vulcain 2.1 internals, and the first flight date. ESA pages differ on some numbers: P120C thrust (3500 kN, about 4500 kN, 350 t), Vulcain 2.1 thrust (1371 kN, 137 t, 138 t, 135 t in vacuum) and where Vulcain 2.1 is built (Vernon on the engines story, Les Mureaux on the France page); both values are kept. The France page says Vinci integration moves from Vernon to Lampoldshausen (Oct 2025) and LOX turbopumps move from Avio to ArianeGroup France; supplier rows may change. The Ariane 6 launch zone (ELA-4) is ground equipment and is not listed as a vehicle part. More detail: Component and supplier data come from ESA's 'Ariane 6 - made in...' country series and engine story, an ArianeGroup IAC-2018 paper, and a third-party copy of the early Ariane 6 User's Manual (Issue 1). Not stated in the pages read: alloy grade of the Al-Li tanks and the metal of the nozzle extension, resin systems of the fairing, adapters and P120C case beyond 'pre-impregnated epoxy', Vinci and Vulcain 2.1 internals, and the first flight date. ESA pages differ on some numbers: P120C thrust (3500 kN, about 4500 kN, 350 t), Vulcain 2.1 thrust (1371 kN, 137 t, 138 t, 135 t in vacuum) and where Vulcain 2.1 is built (Vernon on the engines story, Les Mureaux on the France page); both values are kept. The France page says Vinci integration moves from Vernon to Lampoldshausen (Oct 2025) and LOX turbopumps move from Avio to ArianeGroup France; supplier rows may change. The Ariane 6 launch zone (ELA-4) is ground equipment and is not listed as a vehicle part.",
  "depth": "partial",
  "photos": [
    {
      "file": "products/context/arianespace-ariane-6-1.jpg",
      "alt": "Ariane 6 on the ELA-4 launch pad at Kourou, ESA/Arianespace/CNES logos on the fairing and two strap-on boosters visible",
      "long": "Ariane 6 on the ELA-4 launch pad at Kourou, ESA/Arianespace/CNES logos on the fairing and two strap-on boosters visible",
      "kind": "product",
      "credit": "ESA | https://www.esa.int/ESA_Multimedia/Images/2024/04/Ariane_6_media_kit_cover",
      "license": "CC BY-SA 3.0 IGO",
      "page_url": "https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Ariane_6_on_pad.jpg"
    },
    {
      "file": "products/context/arianespace-ariane-6-2.jpg",
      "alt": "Sentinel-1D satellite being lowered onto an Ariane 6 launch adaptor in the Kourou payload hall, fairing halves behind",
      "long": "Sentinel-1D satellite being lowered onto an Ariane 6 launch adaptor in the Kourou payload hall, fairing halves behind",
      "kind": "context",
      "context": "Sentinel-1D on an Ariane 6 adaptor",
      "credit": "European Space Agency | Sentinel-1D satellite being lowered onto Ariane 6 launch adaptor",
      "license": "CC BY-SA 3.0 IGO",
      "page_url": "https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Sentinel-1D_satellite_being_lowered_onto_Ariane_6_launch_adaptor_ESA514281.jpg"
    },
    {
      "file": "products/context/arianespace-ariane-6-3.jpg",
      "alt": "An Ariane 6 upper stage being lifted at the DLR Lampoldshausen test site, engine nozzle visible below",
      "long": "An Ariane 6 upper stage being lifted at the DLR Lampoldshausen test site, engine nozzle visible below",
      "kind": "context",
      "context": "Ariane 6 upper stage at DLR",
      "credit": "DLR | https://twitter.com/DLR_de/status/1361977558829563906 https://twitter.com/DLR_en/status/1361985257164136449",
      "license": "CC BY 3.0 DE",
      "page_url": "https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Ariane_6_upper_stage_on_DLR_P5.2_test_stand_01.jpg"
    }
  ],
  "context": {
    "size": [],
    "mass": [],
    "orbit": []
  },
  "licence": "Product data CC BY 4.0, cite Space Mushroom. Photos keep their own licences, given per photo.",
  "mcp": "https://spacemushroom.com/mcp"
}