Unloading core stage for Ariane 6 flight VA263

Unloading core stage of Ariane 6 flight VA263 at the launcher assembly building at Europe's Spaceport in French Guiana, 30 November 2024.

The main stage is connected to the upper stage horizontally in the launch vehicle assembly building that is 20 m tall, 112 m long, and 41 m wide. The upper stage arrives first with the main stage then slotting into position, connecting the two to form the central core.

The two boosters used on this flight are connected next on the launch pad. Meanwhile the passenger will be prepared at the payload processing facility and covered by Ariane 6 fairing before being placed on top of the awaiting rocket at the launch pad.

Ariane 6 is Europe’s newest heavy-lift rocket, designed to provide great power and flexibility at a lower cost than its predecessors. The rocket provides Europe with greater efficiency and an ensures access to space for the benefits of humankind, allowing for all types of missions from exploration to navigation, science and communications.