As reported by Ukrinform, reported Space.com.

A new photo released June 23 shows ESA’s Ariane 6 heavy rocket on the launch pad of the European Spaceport in French Guiana.

This rocket has been in development since the early 2010s and is intended to replace the Ariane 5 launch vehicle and provide space access at lower financial costs.

The Ariane 6 rocket prototype is currently being prepared for a series of engine fire tests with the removal of the movable structure protecting the rocket while it is on the launch pad.

The Ariane 6 prototype shown in the latest ESA photos is used solely to test assembly procedures, electrical and fuel connections, and telemetry.

The Ariane 6 rocket is being built by ArianeGroup on behalf of ESA. The active part and upper stages of the rocket were shipped to French Guiana and mounted horizontally. The rocket was then moved to the launch pad, where the vehicle was lifted vertically before attaching the solid thrusters and payload. It’s said to be the first time an Ariane rocket has been mounted horizontally, which officials say reduces launch time and cost.

The initial launch of the Ariane 6 rocket was originally scheduled for 2020, but has since been delayed several times. It is now scheduled to be released before the second quarter of 2024.

As Ukrinform reports, the first test of the VMAX hypersonic glider prototype took place in France as part of the development of the latest rocket technologies.

Photo: “ESA”