Ariane 6 Achieves First Commercial Launch, Delivering CSO-3 Satellite to Orbit

Europe's newest rocket, Ariane 6, completed its first commercial flight (VA263) on March 6 from Europe's Spaceport in French Guiana, successfully delivering the CSO-3 satellite into orbit. Arianespace operated the launch for the French Procurement agency (DGA) and France's space agency CNES, representing the French Air and Space Force's Space Command (CDE). The mission saw successful execution of all phases, including Auxiliary Propulsion Unit (APU) reignition, the Vinci engine's third boost, and upper stage deorbiting. ESA's Director General, Josef Aschbacher, noted the flight as a key milestone for Europe's autonomous space access. Several Ariane 6 launches are planned for 2025. The upper stage demonstrated its capability to support diverse missions and actively prevent space debris, aligning with Europe's commitment to space sustainability.