Ariane 6 rocket launch delayed after an anomaly detected just minutes before scheduled takeoff. The mission aimed to launch a French military satellite into space.
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| Ariane 6 rocket stands ready for launch in French Guiana before the mission was delayed due to a malfunction in the refueling system. Image: ESA |
Kourou, French Guiana — March 4, 2025:
Europe’s highly anticipated Ariane 6 rocket launch was postponed on Monday just minutes before liftoff due to a technical malfunction. The launch, which was set to place the CSO-3 French military satellite into orbit, had been scheduled for 1:24 pm local time at the European Spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana.
The postponement was caused by a detected anomaly in the refueling system, specifically a malfunctioning valve on one of the pipes that supplies fuel to the rocket. David Cavailloles, the head of Ariane, confirmed the issue and stated that the only course of action was to delay the launch. Despite favorable weather conditions earlier in the day, the anomaly forced the team to call off the mission.
The Ariane 6 rocket was intended to complete France’s military imaging network by placing the CSO-3 satellite into a high orbit. This satellite, equipped with advanced imaging technology, plays a critical role in military surveillance, with capabilities to capture both visible and infrared light images globally.
This delay marks another setback in the development of Ariane 6, which has faced multiple postponements since its initial scheduled launch in December. With previous reschedules in February and now in March, the mission continues to experience delays that highlight Europe's struggle to maintain competitive space access.
The European Space Agency (ESA) and Ariane’s leadership have stressed the importance of this mission, not only for military purposes but also for Europe’s broader strategic autonomy in space. Since the cessation of collaboration with Russia’s Soyuz rockets following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, Europe has sought to ensure its independence in launching satellites and other payloads.
The delay comes amid rising competition from private companies like SpaceX, and the growing demand for reliable and autonomous space access. The launch also takes on greater importance in the context of Europe’s desire to reduce its reliance on the United States for access to space.
While the launch is now postponed, Cavailloles expressed confidence that the mission will take place soon. The next launch date has yet to be confirmed, with teams continuing to assess the situation.
Given the military nature of the satellite, strict security measures were in place at the spaceport, including French fighter jets patrolling the skies. These measures reflect the growing strategic importance of Europe’s space capabilities, particularly as the region faces geopolitical shifts and challenges in space exploration.
The setback also follows a series of challenges for Europe’s space program, including the grounding of the Vega-C rocket and delays with Ariane 6’s development, leaving Europe with limited satellite launch options for some time. As Europe moves forward, space officials are focused on securing its place as a leader in global space exploration.