Tags: SpaceX, European Space Agency, Arianespace, Falcon 9, Ariane 5
Publication: BBC.co.uk
Publication Date: 11/19/2012

The Ariane 5 rocket is highly reliable and accurate, but it is also costly to produce. Image credit: ESA/CNES/Arianespace/Optique Video du CSG

"Ariane 5 has no chance," said Elon Musk at an interview with BBC News. The U.S. entrepreneur is slowly winning launch contracts that would have traditionally gone to Arianespace because of SpaceX’s low costs. He suggested that Europe should focus on a new Ariane 6 rocket after saying that “there is no way” that the Ariane 5 is able to compete with his Falcon 6 and Falcon Heavy rockets.

Even though the Falcon 9 has only had four flights, it has more than 40 contracted launches already at an approximate price bellow the $60 million. According to Musk, the next version of this SpaceX rocket will have even lower prices, making it harder for Ariane 5 to compete.

Musk’s remarks come in a key moment as European Space Agency member states are scheduled to meet in Naples this week. They are expected to discuss the future of the rocket, and the scope and funding of the Agency’s projects in the upcoming years.

ESA member states are aware of SpaceX’s aggressive competition but there is disagreement on how to reduce the cost of the Ariane. France is reported to be in favor of building a new, cheaper rocket, while Germany prefers to upgrade the current vehicle.

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