The European Space Agency (ESA) is Europe’s gateway to space. Its mission is to shape the development of Europe’s space capability and ensure that investment in space continues to deliver benefits to the citizens of Europe and the world.
Find out more about space activities in our 23 Member States, and understand how ESA works together with their national agencies, institutions and organisations.
Exploring our Solar System and unlocking the secrets of the Universe
Go to topicProtecting life and infrastructure on Earth and in orbit
Go to topicUsing space to benefit citizens and meet future challenges on Earth
Go to topicMaking space accessible and developing the technologies for the future
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The first launch of Ariane 6 is a collective success for all of Europe. First flights are no easy thing, but Europe now has a heavy-lift rocket able to launch any mission into any orbit. From Earth observation satellites that monitor our changing climate, predict the weather and assist emergency responders during disasters; to communication and navigation systems that keep Europeans in touch and in the right place; to deep space telescopes and explorers expanding our understanding of the Universe and our place within it – Ariane 6 has restored Europe’s autonomous access to space.
“Thank you, not only to the ESA team but everyone around Europe who contributed to this moment in history,” said Tony Tolker-Nielsen, ESA’s Director of Space Transportation, the day after Ariane 6’s first flight. “This is a major industrial project, with contributions from 13 countries and hundreds of companies. Like a symphonic orchestra, all instruments are vital to play the perfect music”.
Ariane 6 launched on 9 July 2024 from Europe's Spaceport in French Guiana at 16:00 local time (20:00 BST, 21:00 CEST). Europe’s newest heavy-lift rocket, it is designed to provide great power and flexibility at a lower cost than its predecessors. The launcher’s configuration – with an upgraded main stage, a choice of either two or four powerful boosters and a new restartable upper stage – will provide Europe with greater efficiency and possibility as it can launch multiple missions into different orbits on a single flight.
Find more videos from Space Team Europe for Ariane 6.
Find more videos from Space Team Europe.