PLD Space is currently under development our suborbital launch vehicle to provide an exceptional platform for new technology development for space industry and a perfect investigation vehicle for the scientific community.
Arion 1 launch vehicle is presented to the #NewSpace industry as a new sounding rocket, clearly focused to provide real and independent flight opportunities to the suborbital worldwide market.
Also this launcher, serves us as a technology demonstrator for several key technologies that will be implemented in the Arion 2 launch vehicle, before reaching orbit.
Made to reach space
Propulsion system, are based on state-of-the-art KeroLOX liquid rocket engines. First stage is fed with single shaft dual impeller turbopump and second stage is based on pressure-fed system. Both systems have been designed with the simplest possible design, combining regenerative&ablative cooling techniques .
Vehicle control is achieved through the use of electromechanical actuators by gimbaling the rocket engine.
Auxiliary propulsion systems for in-space control and orbital maneuvering are based on mature technologies using cold gas thrusters.
Flight structures of both stages are being designed in collaboration with COMET, combining semi-monocoque and monocoque configuration, combining aluminum and carbon fiber. One event of staging will be performed per flight, with a single stage separation via all-pneumatic pusher system minimizing any risk derived from using pyrotechnical devices.
Flight avionics designed in house, based on internal development, to manage all the events on the launch pad, in flight situation and the final deployment of the payload.