ESA - Robotic Exploration of Mars - EDM propulsions system tests

This photo was taken during EDM fluid dynamics tests with a hydraulic mock-up in summer 2011. A full-scale model of the piping network of the propulsion system was built for the purpose. This model does not contain the propellant tanks or the engines - those will be added in a later test campaign. However, the engines have been tested successfully in a separate test.

The purpose of this test was to study the complex fluid dynamics of the EDM propulsion system. The models were manufactured and tested by Thales Alenia Space - France in Cannes.