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Model: AVUM. Gross Mass: 650 kg (1,430 lb). Empty Mass: 150 kg (330 lb). Thrust (vac): 2.450 kN (551 lbf). Isp: 315 sec. Burn time: 317 sec. Propellants: N2O4/UDMH. Diameter: 1.90 m (6.20 ft). Span: 1.90 m (6.20 ft). Length: 1.74 m (5.70 ft). Country: Italy. No Engines: 1. Status: In production.

The AVUM upper stage performed the following functions:

  • roll control during second, third and fourth stage flights
  • attitude control during coasting phase
  • correction of axial velocity error due to solid rocket motor
  • performance scatter
  • generation of the required velocity change for orbit circularisation
  • satellite pointing
  • payload(s) release manoeuvres
The AVUM propulsion module was composed of a UDMH/NTO bipropellant main engine with a re-ignition capability and a cold gas attitude control system, based on two clusters of three thrusters, each having a 50 N thrust.

The AVUM avionics module provided the following services:

  • flight control and mission management
  • telemetry
  • localisation and neutralisation
  • power supply and distribution
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© Mark Wade, 1997 - 2008 except where otherwise noted.