Europe’s newest heavy-lift rocket, the Ariane 6, completed its first full-power mission on February 12, delivering 32 satellites for Amazon’s Project Kuiper broadband constellation into low Earth orbit (LEO). The launch, conducted from the European Spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana, marks a significant milestone for the European Space Agency (ESA) and its contractor, Arianespace.
Ariane 6: A Step Up in Payload Capacity
This mission utilized the Ariane 64 configuration, distinguished by its four solid rocket boosters. This variant can lift over 20 metric tons to LEO – roughly double the capacity of the previously flown Ariane 62, which featured only two boosters. The increased capacity positions Ariane 6 as a key player in the growing market for satellite launches.
The Ariane 6 program has been undergoing testing since its debut flight in July 2024, with four operational missions completed last year. Today’s launch was the first commercial deployment of the rocket, having previously served government-operated spacecraft. It also featured the largest payload fairing yet used on the vehicle.
Amazon’s Kuiper Constellation Takes Shape
The satellites deployed today contribute to Amazon’s Project Kuiper, a broadband megaconstellation designed to compete directly with SpaceX’s Starlink. The ultimate goal is to deploy over 3,200 satellites to provide global internet access. Amazon plans to rely on multiple launch providers, including SpaceX, United Launch Alliance, Blue Origin, and Arianespace, to achieve this goal.
This launch represents the eighth dedicated mission for Kuiper, bringing the total number of satellites deployed to 185. Amazon’s investment in satellite infrastructure underscores the growing demand for space-based internet services.
This mission confirms Europe’s capability to deliver substantial payloads to orbit, solidifying its position in the competitive satellite launch market.
The success of the Ariane 64 mission demonstrates Europe’s ability to compete in the commercial space sector. With increased capacity and commercial deployments, the Ariane 6 is poised to play a major role in future satellite launches.
