CNES (French National Center for Space Studies)

The Vulcain 2.1, the main-stage engine on the Ariane 6 launcher under development, was run Sept. 5.

First launch of Europe's new workhorse Ariane 6 is finally coming into view.

Final trials before the inaugural flight of the Ariane 6 launcher saw ESA engineers perform an extensive assessment with the combined test model.

Astroscale Holdings has established a subsidiary in Paris, Astroscale France SAS, and is to sign a contract with the CNES to study space debris removal.

ESA member states scramble to protect independent access to space.

Just two launches are scheduled for 2023 at Europe’s spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana.

Last November, Europe’s three leading countries in space launchers issued a joint statement that set the stage for further cooperation.

Philippe Baptiste, an engineer by training with experience in science, industry and politics, is to succeed Jean-Yves Le Gall at the helm of French space agency CNES after the country’s parliament approved the nomination.

Jean-Yves Le Gall, president of CNES, tells Aviation Week’s Thierry Dubois about the agency’s progress on reusable launchers and other programs in conjunction with International Astronautical Congress 2020.