SYNTHESIS OF THE SRM FRAGMENTATION ACTIVITIES PERFORMED WITHIN VEGA PROGRAM

摘要

In the frame of VEGA program and especially the first flight on February 13, 2013, safety was a major concern. The default of the launcher and its impact on the close range were amongst the development phase topics because of the propellant masses at stake and the surrounding inhabited environment. A task group composed of members from ESA, CNES and industrial partners involved was formed for this matter. All SRMs are equipped with destruction chains. While P80 (first stage) is functioning, the Zefiri remain unpressurized. A scenario was set stating that the activation of Zefiri cutting chord creates an ignited gap inside the propellant. This ought to propagate till the inner bore, driving the explosion of the motor. This scenario was studied through small scale tests and numerical simulation, providing confidence on the feasibility of the destruction of the SRMs as well as inputs in terms of safety delays.