Feb 13 • 10:26 UTC 🇪🇸 Spain El País

The first ‘Ariane 6’ with four engines: why the launch of Amazon's satellites is important for Europe

The successful launch of Amazon's 32 Leo satellites aboard the Ariane 6 rocket marks a significant step for Europe's space industry, showcasing its technological independence and economic viability.

The launch of Amazon's 32 Leo satellites from the European space center in Kourou, Guyana on the Ariane 6 rocket, which boasts the highest transport capability to date, signifies a pivotal moment for Europe's space industry. This event not only demonstrates the technological capabilities of European space technology but also marks a crucial competition in the global communications landscape dominated by entities like Elon Musk's SpaceX and Jeff Bezos' Amazon.

The director of the European Space Agency (ESA), Josef Aschbacher, emphasized the economic growth of the space sector, indicating that Europe's participation in this rapidly evolving field is vital. The launch has broader implications for ensuring technological sovereignty for Europe, which means that the continent can independently develop and deploy its satellite network without relying on foreign technology. This is crucial in the context of growing global competition for dominance in satellite communications.

In summary, the Ariane 6's successful operation enhances Europe's position within the high-performance space market and illustrates the commercial viability of the European space sector. As this sector continues to grow, it will be essential for Europe to maintain its strategic involvement to secure its influence in future technological advancements in space.

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