# Ariel payload assembled for testing; launch now more likely in 2031 than 2029

Canonical page: https://technooptimist.io/stories/ariel-payload-assembled-for-testing-launch-now-more-likely-in-2031-than-f00117f2
Date: 16 Mar 2026
About: [European Space Agency](https://technooptimist.io/companies/esa.md) · [Ariel](https://technooptimist.io/spaceflight/ariel.md)
Original source: https://www.iflscience.com/ariel-a-revolutionary-1000-exoplanet-mission-is-getting-tested-iflscience-got-an-exclusive-look-82869

Ariel's multinational payload was assembled as a whole for the first time and is being tested to show it can survive launch and the cold vacuum of space. The telescope's 1.1 m mirror is a single block of silver-coated aluminium, so the whole telescope expands and shrinks evenly and stays in focus. Launch, once set for 2029, is now considered more likely in 2031.

## Key facts

- The finished mirror was not yet part of the test setup.
- Next: integrate the parts and mirror, then check performance.
- Rachael Drummond of RAL Space is the UK national project manager.

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