The final tranche of R&D funding needed to introduce a new rocket for Europe was committed on Wednesday. The European Space Agency has amended an August 2015 contract with Airbus Safran Launchers (ASL), to release a further 1.7bn (£1.5bn; $1.9bn). Read more
The company set up to manufacture Europe's next-generation rocket - the Ariane 6 - says it is open to orders. Airbus Safran Launchers (ASL) expects to introduce the new vehicle in 2020. This week, member states of the European Space Agency gave their final nod to the project following an extensive review process. Read more
In November 2012, European Ministers responsible for space, meeting in Naples, Italy, approved the start of preparatory activities for Europes next-generation Ariane 6 launch vehicle. Read more
The basic design for Europe's next generation rocket, the Ariane 6, has been selected. It will be powered by two solid-fuelled lower stages and incorporate the liquid-fuelled upper-stage currently being developed as an upgrade for the existing Ariane 5 vehicle. The concept was chosen following six months of trade-off studies. Read more