France's CNES has placed a full-scale model of its reusable rocket, Callisto, on a historic launchpad for critical ground tests, marking a step toward vertical landings.
Model of reusable rocket erected
The French National Center for Space Studies (CNES) has placed a full-scale model of its reusable rocket demonstrator, Callisto, on the former Diamond launchpad at the Guiana Space Center. This marks the first such event in 51 years and the beginning of ground tests.Model specifications and location
The model, built by the French SME CIPAL, is 13 meters high and one meter in diameter. It has been positioned on the first orbital launchpad in Kourou, the site previously used by the Diamond rocket, for several hours and will remain there for a week.Testing communications systems
During the week of testing, the model will exchange data with the radar and facilities of the base without moving from the ground. This is part of preparing for the return to Earth, with the model carrying six antennas positioned exactly as on the final vehicle.Focus on communication during flight
The tests aim to verify how the rocket interacts with the launchpad facilities and the procedures teams will follow on the day of the launch. A rocket in flight continuously communicates with the ground, transmitting real-time measurements and images while receiving commands and having its trajectory tracked by radar.Fuel and testing strategy
Callisto’s engine uses liquid hydrogen and oxygen, unlike the American Falcon 9 rocket that uses kerosene. The CNES is testing the base while the vehicle is still in development to identify potential problems early, aiming to save time and reduce costs.Industrial partnerships and future plans
Several industrial partners, including CIPAL, MT Aerospace Guyane, TSO, and Thales Alenia Space, are involved. These tests mark the start of a qualification phase that will last until 2027. The real Callisto, which will fly, is expected to arrive "shortly thereafter," though no specific date is given.Historical significance of the launchpad
The Diamond launchpad has historical significance for French space efforts. It was the first French satellite launcher, launched from the Hammaguir base in Algeria in 1965. The rocket was later moved to French Guiana, where it launched eight times before the program ended in 1975 due to funding issues.Callisto project timeline and goals
The Callisto project, launched in 2017 with German and Japanese space agencies, has faced delays, with the original goal of a 2020 or 2021 flight slipping to 2026. The qualification phase will extend until 2027, and no new date is provided. The demonstrator is not intended to become an operational launcher but will conduct ten flights to estimate the cost of a reusable first stage.European reusable rocket challenges
In Sweden, Themis, developed by ArianeGroup for the ESA, is still waiting for its first flight, with the agency uncertain if it will happen by the end of the year. Despite positive signals, Europe still faces significant challenges in competing with SpaceX, which has been landing its boosters for a decade.
