Bélier (rocket)

Bélier is the designation of a French sounding rocket family. Three versions of the Bélier were launched between 1961 and 1970 at the CIEES launch facility at Hammaguir, the Salto di Quirra and Ile du Levant missile ranges, and Kourou Space Center.

After its retirement, the Bélier was used as a stage for a family of solid-propellant rockets, including the Centaure, the Dragon, the Dauphin and the Éridan.

Belier I
The first Belier single stage rocket, powered by a Jericho motor.


 * payload: 30 kg
 * apogee: 80 km
 * takeoff thrust: 20.00 kN
 * takeoff weight: 313 kg
 * diameter: 0.31 m
 * length: 4.01 m
 * fin span: 0.78 m

Belier II
Upgraded Belier single stage rocket, using 'Plastolite' propellant.


 * payload: 30 kg
 * apogee: 130 km
 * takeoff thrust: 21.50 kN
 * takeoff weight: 352 kg
 * diameter: 0.31 m
 * length: 5.90 m
 * fin span: 0.78 m

Belier III
Upgraded Belier single stage rocket, powered by a Vega motor using 'Isolane' propellant.

Belier III launches:
 * apogee: 109 km
 * takeoff weight: 400 kg
 * diameter: 0.31 m
 * length: 3.80 m