SERENITY

Reusable launcher technologies aim at strengthening Europe’s competitiveness in the field of New Space transportation by enabling reduced cost, increased operational flexibility and minimum environmental impact. Yet, their applicability still needs to be demonstrated. A key enabler is Structural Health Monitoring (SHM), which ensures high launcher utilization rates and the required flight cadence. By moving from traditional inspections to embedded, real-time sensing, SERENITY reduces dependence on extensive post-flight non-destructive testing, cutting turnaround time and operational costs for reusable launchers. The project develops two complementary SHM approaches: 1 / Damage detection systems using ultrasound guided wave monitoring with piezoelectric (PZT) sensors for on-ground measurement. 2 / Thermo-mechanical monitoring systems based on fiber Bragg grating (FBG) optical fibers for in-flight measurements. Covering the full technological chain—sensors, interrogation units, electronics, data processing, and software—SERENITY ensures seamless transfer to space applications. Starting from proven technologies (TRL 4–5), the project targets TRL 7 through on-ground qualification tests on two representative use cases (Ariane and Vega launchers). The 36-months project brings together 12 partners from 6 countries, including European leaders ArianeGroup and Avio, to establish a fully European supply chain for cost-effective SHM solutions. By aligning technologies with diverse end-user needs and opening new applications in other high-tech sectors, SERENITY strengthens market potential and contributes to European autonomy in SHM. Deploying advanced PZT and FBG networks will enhance the competitiveness of European launchers, enable faster and safer reuse. In doing so, SERENITY ensures Europe’s technological leadership in SHM for space transportation.