Posted: Thu, Dec 4, 2014, 5:18 AM ET (1018 GMT)
European space ministers meeting this week approved plans to develop a new version of the Ariane rocket and also extend funding for the International Space Station. Ministers approved the development of the Ariane 6, a vehicle that will replace the existing Ariane 5 and offer lower launch costs. The Ariane 6 is expected to enter service by the end of the decade. The ministers also approved the development of an upgraded version of the Vega small launch vehicle, the Vega-C. Ministers approved funding of the ISS through 2017, and endorsed its operations through 2020, although funding for the final three years will be provided at a future meeting. ESA ministers also approved funding for the service module for NASA's Orion spacecraft, which will be based on ESA's ATV cargo vehicle.
