Start of the production phase for the structural model of the Ariel spacecraft!🛰️ The @esa exoplanet mission Ariel has reached an exciting new milestone! Assembled in our Airbus facilities, it is composed of two parts: ➡️ a simplified model of the payload module ➡️ a structural model of the platform It will be used to validate the spacecraft’s mechanical design and the sensitive payload-to-spacecraft interface. Although this specific model will never be sent to space, it will still have to go through a thorough mechanical test campaign including vibrations, acoustic test and, separation and shock test with the Ariane 6 launch adapter. Set for launch in 2029, Ariel will analyse atmospheres of more than 1000 exoplanets and complement missions CHEOPS, Gaia and Webb Space telescope.