The successful first commercial launch of the Ariane 6 rocket took place on March 6, delivering the French reconnaissance satellite CSO-3 into a sun-synchronous orbit at an altitude of approximately 800 kilometers. Launched from the Kourou spaceport in French Guiana, the mission demonstrated the vehicle’s capabilities, with the satellite being deployed roughly one hour after liftoff. Following the deployment, the third stage of the Ariane 6 executed a maneuver to re-enter Earth’s atmosphere. This achievement marks a critical milestone, as it follows multiple delays attributed to developmental challenges. The successful launch, as noted by ESA Director General Josef Aschbacher last July, signals the conclusion of the “launch crisis” for the program and reinforces Europe’s position in the global space launch market.
