changes planned for the ArianeGroup site in Vernon

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Change in sight for the ArianeGroup site in Vernon, in Eure. A place nestled in the heart of the forest, on the edge of the Vexin plateau, which extends over 131 hectares, 116 of which are enclosed by the testing area.

Note that the first dwellings are located 1,250 m to the northwest (place called Les Saulseuses) and 1,500 m to the northeast (place called La Queue d'Haye).

New classification

Thus, in this context, in order to allow tests of the next generation of rocket engines (Prometheus engine), existing installations must be modified.

The significant increase in the quantities of liquid methane on the site implies a change in the regime of the ICPE section (Installation classified for environmental protection).

It is in this context that ArianeGroup sent a request for environmental authorization on March 28, 2024. This request was the subject of a public inquiry from August 26 to September 26.

With more than 50 years of experience in the design, construction and implementation of rocket engine test benches, ArianeGroup has “developed all the procedures allowing it to control the risks associated with the operation of its testing area,” notes the municipality of Vernon.

“Faced with the project consisting of adding a tank integrated into the existing superstructure, the visual impact will be low and the height of this extension will be lower than the height of the main building. No deforestation is planned. The visual screen constituted by the surrounding woods will be maintained. »

As a reminder, created in 2016, the company ArianeGroup, in support of the two groups Airbus and Safran, took over the activities of rocket propulsion of the Ballistics and Aerodynamics Research Laboratory (LRBA) present on the site since 1947.

World leader in access to space, the company designs, develops and produces cryogenic propulsion systems for European Ariane launchers but also missiles for the French oceanic deterrent force. It currently employs more than 850 people.

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