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While no person could get this close during Ariane 6\u2019s inaugural flight on 9 July 2024, several small cameras bravely witnessed its take-off from the launchpad.<\/p>\n
After years of preparations, the Vulcain main stage engine ignites,\u00a0arms providing cryogenic fuels to the rocket until the very last moment retract and boosters fire \u2013 Ariane 6 is space-bound. As it lifts off, vast amounts of water are pumped at high speed to dampen vibrations at the launch site, which then come rushing towards one of these small cameras in a dramatic swirl, hiding the departing rocket from view.<\/p>\n
Ariane 6 launched from Europe’s Spaceport in French Guiana at 16:00 local time (20:00 BST, 21:00 CEST), designed to provide more launch power with higher flexibility and at a lower cost than its predecessors. The launcher\u2019s configuration \u2013 with an upgraded main stage, a choice of either two or four powerful boosters and a new restartable upper stage \u2013 will provide Europe with greater efficiency and a wider range of launch services, including for the launch of multiple payloads into different orbits on a single flight.<\/p>\n
Access all the launch campaign footage in broadcast quality.\u202f\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n
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