The demonstrator of the European Space Agency (ESA), named Themis, has successfully completed its first test with liquid nitrogen. This key test was carried out on 23 July on the launch pad at the Esrange space centre in Sweden, confirming the system's readiness for further operations.
During the trial, the rocket stage was filled with several tonnes of ultra-cold liquid nitrogen. This liquid, cooled to –200°C, is used as a safe substitute for real fuel as it is neither flammable nor explosive, and has similar properties in terms of cryogenic temperature and density to the liquid methane and oxygen that will power the rocket.
The aim of the test was to simulate a full range of events that would occur before launch and after landing. This checked how the systems withstood extreme cold and high pressure, and whether all components functioned correctly in these conditions. The trial was inspired by the procedures followed during the preparation for the first flight of the Ariane 6 rocket.
ArianeGroup and SSC Space jointly conducted the countdown procedures and post-launch operations. This approach allows operators to fine-tune procedures in a safe environment, while simultaneously identifying any potential residual anomalies before the actual mission.
Themis is the flagship demonstrator of the European Union for low-cost reusable rocket technologies. It is powered by the reusable Prometheus engine on liquid oxygen and methane, which develops the same thrust force as the main engine on the European Ariane 6 rocket.
The data collected during this trial will play a key role in preparing the theme for the first flight of the theme. In particular, the data are important for the complex operations of the cryogenic engine, which is a critical phase in the development of this innovative technology.
