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After four years of waiting, Ariane 6 was finally able to launch into space to put a dozen satellites into orbit. An operation that puts Europe back in the space race, and delights spectators, engineers and specialists.
At 4pm on Tuesday 9 July in Guyana, the heavy Ariane 6 rocket lifted off from the ground. On board were about ten satellites to be placed into orbit. The launch was a success overall, and an air of jubilation could be felt in the Jupiter room, the control tower for the operation. “It was incredible to see this launcher take off, we can very broadly say that Europe is back in the competition for access to space”rejoiced a manager.
At the same time in metropolitan France, in Toulouse, the feat was followed on a giant outdoor screen by 4,000 spectators. They preferred to experience this historic moment for the conquest of space rather than the Euro match between the French and Spain. “It was beautiful”marveled a mother, while a pensioner said to herself: “very moved to see all these people” to watch the show. Many amateurs, but also engineers who participated in the operation were present.