ArianeGroup secures long-term supply of CFRP payload fairings from Beyond Gravity
ArianeGroup has signed a contract with Beyond Gravity to supply 27 carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) payload fairings for the Ariane 6 rocket, with deliveries starting at the end of 2026. This contract supports the increased production rate of Ariane 6 and highlights the critical role of CFRP materials in enhancing payload capacity and flexibility for the European heavy-launcher program.
Beyond Gravity (Zurich, Switzerland) has secured a contract with ArianeGroup (Paris, France) to supply 27 carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) payload fairings for the Ariane 6 rocket. These fairings, featuring aluminum honeycomb cores with carbon fiber-reinforced composite cover layers, have been integral to over 400 rocket launches. The agreement supports the operational phase of Ariane 6, ensuring Europe's continued access to space.
ArianeGroup, the prime contractor for Ariane 6, is increasing its production rate following successful initial flights. Beyond Gravity has been a consistent supplier of payload fairings for Ariane missions since 1979. The new contract covers flight models 16 to 42, with production of 20 long and seven short payload fairings, contributing to the planned launch cadence of nine to ten missions per year.
The Ariane 6 rocket can be equipped with either a short (14-meter) or long (20-meter) payload fairing, allowing it to accommodate a variety of payloads. This flexibility is achieved through a common technical platform that supports diverse mission requirements without the need for separate systems.
The contract, beginning at the end of 2026, represents the largest in Beyond Gravity's history within its Swiss launch vehicle business. This development is a key factor in the industrial ramp-up of the Ariane 6 program.
In related news, advancements in composite materials are being applied to other aerospace projects. Swift Engineering utilized HyperX software to reduce weight in the X-59 supersonic aircraft's nose cone, while new methods for small satellite structures employ low-CTE, low-cost CFRP to enhance efficiency and reduce costs.
Source: Carbon Fiber Feed