Greta rocket engine completes first test campaign
Greta Rocket Engine Completes First Test Campaign: A Leap Forward in Sustainable Space Technology
The European Space Agency's (ESA) Future Launchers Preparatory Programme (FLPP) has made significant strides in the development of a more sustainable rocket engine, Greta. This 5 kN thrust class engine has successfully completed a hot-fire test campaign, demonstrating stable operations, shutdowns, and multiple restarts on a mobile test stand developed by ArianeGroup. The Greta project is a crucial step towards reducing the carbon footprint of space exploration, and its implications are far-reaching.
A New Era in Propellants
Greta runs on hydrogen peroxide and ethanol, a more sustainable alternative to traditional rocket engines in the same thrust class. This choice of propellants is a significant departure from the monomethyl hydrazine used by most traditional rocket engines. Hydrogen peroxide and ethanol have a lower carbon footprint, making Greta a more environmentally friendly option for space missions.
The Test Campaign: A Success
The Greta engine was ignited multiple times from July to November 2025, with each test lasting over 40 seconds. The engine demonstrated stable operations, including controlled shutdowns, and showed remarkable reliability. The test campaign was conducted on a new, low-cost, and versatile mobile test stand, which allowed for the collection of valuable data on the engine's performance.
Laser Melting Production Techniques
Greta's 30-cm high combustion chamber is built up in layers by melting metal powders with a laser. This technique, known as laser melting production, allows for complex shapes to be made that would be difficult to achieve with conventional metallurgy. For example, the Greta engine is cooled by passing fluid through complex channels built into the engine as close as possible to the inner wall of the chamber, which is in contact with the hot combustion gases.
Implications and Applications
The success of the Greta engine has significant implications for the space industry. This engine could be used on lunar landers or on large kick stages, such as Ariane 6 add-on Astris. The use of sustainable propellants reduces the carbon footprint of space missions, making them more environmentally friendly. Additionally, the laser melting production technique used in Greta's construction allows for complex shapes to be made, which could lead to the development of more efficient and effective rocket engines.
Next Steps: Further Improvement and Testing
ArianeGroup has kicked off the next phase of the Greta project, with the aim of further improving the engine's design and performance. This next stage of the project will involve the use of lessons learned from the test campaign and other work to make a design for a flight-engine. The following subcontractors will provide parts for the flight-like motor design: Safran Aero Boosters in Belgium, the Institute of Aviation in Poland, and InPraise Systems from the Czech Republic. The next evolution of Greta will be tested on the same mobile test bench in Trauen at the end of 2027.
Conclusion
The Greta rocket engine's completion of its first test campaign marks a significant milestone in the development of sustainable space technology. The use of hydrogen peroxide and ethanol as propellants reduces the carbon footprint of space missions, making them more environmentally friendly. The laser melting production technique used in Greta's construction allows for complex shapes to be made, which could lead to the development of more efficient and effective rocket engines. As the space industry continues to evolve, the Greta engine's success will play a crucial role in shaping the future of space exploration.
Forward-Looking Thoughts
The success of the Greta engine has significant implications for the space industry, and its impact will be felt for years to come. As the industry continues to evolve, we can expect to see more sustainable and efficient rocket engines being developed. The use of laser melting production techniques will become more widespread, allowing for the creation of complex shapes and more efficient rocket engines. The Greta engine's success is a testament to the power of innovation and collaboration, and it will serve as a model for future space missions.
