Demonstrator THEMIS

CNES and Arianegroup are already actively preparing next generation of European launchers. With the PROMETHEUS oxygen/methan engine starting subsystems testing in 2018, and the CALLISTO experimental reusable vehicle about to complete preliminary design, engineering work has been initiated for next step on the European roadmap: THEMIS.

THEMIS is both a demonstrator and a prototype of a low cost and reusable first stage, meant as the centrepiece of future Ariane architectures. It is intended to feature PROMETHEUS and will build upon technologies and lessons learned from the CALLISTO programme.

Several challenges lie ahead for THEMIS, with two highlights: meeting an aggressive cost targets consistent with the 50% launch cost cut sought beyond Ariane 6, and keeping a swift tempo for getting THEMIS ready well before 2025. To address those challenges, a specific initiative was undertaken by CNES and Arianegroup, under codename ArianeWorks.

The engine Prometheus is a methane/LOX engine with about 1000 kN of thrust and work as gas generator cycle. The following are known: Combustion chamber pressure of 110 bar and fuel mix of 3.5.