Improving the Soyuz-Fregat launch system

Paper number

IAC-08.D2.1.8

Author

Mr. François BARREAU, Arianespace, France

Coauthor

Mr. Dimitri BARANOV, State Research and Production Space-Rocket Center “TsSKB-Progress”, Russia

Coauthor

Mr. Vladimir ASSIOUCHKINE, NPO Lavochkine, Russia

Year

2008

Abstract

With the successful launch of the Soyuz 2-1b, a major step in performance improvement was made with the Soyuz launch vehicle. Additional capability is now on track by upgrading the Fregat upper stage to meet more demanding mission requirements, applying the same winning formula compared to Soyuz: sequenced introduction of limited evolutions combined with a thorough ground qualification program of each modification.

The two main areas of improvement that will be described concern the Fregat upper stage dry mass reduction and the increased propellant tanks capacity.

Taking advantage of the additional mass performance authorized by the Soyuz 2-1b, these modifications of the Fregat upper stage significantly improve the payload capability for the most demanding missions in medium earth orbit and geostationary transfer orbit.

For Arianespace, this will be of a great benefit, offering efficient solutions for the launch of the Galileo constellation or geostationary spacecraft by re-enforcing the dual integration strategy between Ariane 5 and Soyuz from the launch pad at the Guiana Space Center (CSG).

Abstract document

IAC-08.D2.1.8.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-08.D2.1.8.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

To get the manuscript, please contact IAF Secretariat.