Space transportation

Ariane 6 launches to the sky on 9 July 2024 from Europe’s Spaceport in French Guiana.

ESA is investing to enhance Europe’s autonomous space transport. Independent access to space, through our own rockets, space vehicles and ground infrastructure, is vital for Europe’s economy, safety, policy and decision-making, to bring the benefits of space to all citizens. 

Ariane 6 is Europe’s new heavy-lift rocket, following the successful and reliable Ariane 5. Its versatile and modular design with either two or four boosters and its reignitable upper stage makes Ariane 6 ideal for medium and heavy payloads, including satellite constellations. It is designed to allow for further upgrades throughout its operational life, to meet evolving demands.