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Ariane 6 Rocket to Launch 32 Amazon Leo Satellites in April 2026
Liftoff from Europe's Spaceport in French Guiana is planned for April 28, 2026.
Apr. 16, 2026 at 8:03am
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The upcoming Ariane 6 launch will deploy the next wave of Amazon's global satellite constellation, expanding connectivity services worldwide.Washington TodayArianespace has announced the launch window for the VA268 mission, which will see the Ariane 6 rocket deploy 32 Amazon Leo satellites into low Earth orbit. The launch is scheduled to take place from Europe's Spaceport in French Guiana on April 28, 2026, within a window spanning from 4:51 a.m. to 5:39 a.m. Eastern Time (US).
Why it matters
This mission will be the second Ariane 6 launch supporting the deployment of the Amazon Leo satellite constellation, which aims to expand connectivity services worldwide. The Ariane 6 is the most powerful version of the Ariane rocket and is crucial for launching large payloads like the Amazon Leo satellites into orbit.
The details
The Ariane 6 rocket will be in its 'Ariane 64' configuration, which is the most powerful variant of the Ariane 6 launch vehicle. The 32 Amazon Leo satellites being deployed are designated LE-02 by the company and are part of a series of 18 Ariane 6 launches that will contribute to the expansion of the Amazon Leo connectivity services.
- The launch window is scheduled for April 28, 2026, between 4:51 a.m. and 5:39 a.m. Eastern Time (US).
- The launch window in Kourou, French Guiana is from 5:51 a.m. to 6:39 a.m.
- The launch window in UTC is from 8:51 a.m. to 9:39 a.m.
- The launch window in Paris is from 10:51 a.m. to 11:39 a.m.
The players
Arianespace
Arianespace is a French company that provides launch services for satellites. It operates the Ariane family of rockets, including the Ariane 6, from the Guiana Space Center in French Guiana.
Amazon Leo
Amazon Leo is a satellite constellation being developed by Amazon to provide global broadband internet connectivity services.
What’s next
The official mission patch for the VA268 mission has been unveiled by Arianespace, showcasing the Ariane 6 rocket and the Amazon Leo satellites.
The takeaway
The upcoming VA268 mission is a significant milestone in the deployment of the Amazon Leo satellite constellation, which aims to expand global connectivity services. The use of the powerful Ariane 6 rocket highlights the importance of advanced launch capabilities in supporting the growth of the satellite industry.
