Ariane 6 for Galileo (Launch animation)

Europe’s newest rocket Ariane 6 was made for Galileo.

This video shows a launch of two Galileo navigation satellites on an Ariane 6 rocket.

Ariane and Galileo have a long history together, with 12 satellites launched aboard three Ariane 5 rockets. Ariane 6, the new generation of Europe’s heavy-lift launcher, is taking over as the reference for launching Galileo satellites.

The world’s most precise satellite navigation system, Galileo serves billions of daily users from medium Earth orbit 23 222 km above Earth’s surface. Galileo is also making a difference across key sectors, including rail, maritime, agriculture, financial timing services and rescue operations.

On behalf of the European Commission, the European Space Agency (ESA) is responsible for the design, development and qualification of Galileo's space and ground systems as well as procuring the launches. The European Union Agency for the Space Programme (EUSPA) operates the satellites from the Early Orbit Phase of their operational mission until their disposal at the end of life.

Ariane 6 is a key element of ESA’s efforts to ensure autonomous access to space for Europe’s citizens. Its modular and versatile design allows it to launch all types of missions, from low-Earth orbit to deep space.

Ariane 6 is designed and built by ArianeGroup. It has three main components each working in stages to escape Earth’s gravity and take satellites to orbit: two or four boosters, and a core and upper stage. For this launch, the rocket will be in its two-booster configuration. 

The core stage and the boosters provide thrust for the first phase of flight. The core stage is powered by the Vulcain 2.1 engine (fuelled by liquid oxygen and hydrogen), with the main thrust at liftoff provided by the P120C boosters. 

The upper stage is powered by the reignitable Vinci engine, also fuelled by liquid oxygen and hydrogen. The upper stage will fire two times to reach the required orbit for this mission. 

After separation of the Galileo satellites, the Ariane 6 upper stage moves to a stable graveyard orbit far away from operational satellites. 

Credits: European Space Agency (ESA)

Access the video on the ESA video library: https://www.esa.int/ESA_Multimedia/Videos/2025/12/Ariane_6_for_Galileo

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