Ariane 6 next launch date fixed
January 30, 2025
By Chris Forrester

Arianespace will fly its next rocket mission (VA263) with Ariane 6 on February 26th. Its cargo will be a French military satellite (the CSO-3 high-res optical satellite). It is Ariane 6’s first commercial, fee-paying flight and follows on from the test debut flight on July 9th 2024.
The current plan is for launch to take place at 13.24 French Guiana time, subject as ever to local weather conditions.
CSO-3 will be the third CSO (Composante Spatiale Optique) satellite launched by Arianespace, completing the CSO system. “With this launch in support of French defence and the capacity requirements of several partner nations, Arianespace will guarantee independent access to space for France and Europe, meeting a strategic priority,” stated Arianespace.
David Cavaillolès, CEO of Arianespace, commented: “I am very pleased to announce the date of Ariane 6’s first commercial flight as I take up office. This marks the start of the Ariane 6 operating phase, and it’s an honour to open this new era for Arianespace. With this launch in support of French defense and the capability requirements of several partner nations, Arianespace will guarantee independent access to space for France and Europe, for the benefit of all our fellow citizens.”
CSO-1 and CSO-2 were both successfully launched by Arianespace, respectively in 2018 and 2020.
The mission is the 145th spacecraft built by Airbus Defence & Space launched on Arianespace rockets.