Ariane 6 is poised to launch 32 Amazon Leo satellites on VA268, the seventh Ariane 6 flight and the second using the powerful 64 variant with four solid boosters.

Amazon Leo will be deployed through multiple rockets over time, including Ariane 6, SpaceX Falcon 9, and ULA Atlas V and Vulcan Centaur, with at least 18 Ariane 6 flights booked for the constellation buildout.

The first Ariane 64 launch earlier this year delivered 32 Amazon Leo satellites, and VA268 will attempt a similar deployment profile.

Launch operations are centered at the CDL in Kourou, Guyane, where teams manage all launcher integration in a fortified facility with extensive sensors tracking every state during ascent.

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During A64 testing, engineers observed unusual effects on the launch pad, including a burning mast base and dynamic exhaust plumes, prompting minor adaptations and rapid post-launch repairs to maintain schedule.

The launch profile features booster separation, fairing jettison, core stage separation, Vinci engine ignitions, and payload separation, with a total mission duration around 114 minutes.

ArianeGroup leads as prime contractor and design authority, Arianespace serves as launch service provider, while ESA oversees development, risk management, and performance across a European industrial network in 13 countries.

Live coverage will be available on Arianespace’s YouTube channel, with a media kit provided for reporters and interested viewers.

On launch day, fueling with LOX and LH2 occurs, with fueling arms designed to detach before liftoff to support a synchronized A64 window from roughly 10:08 to 10:57 Paris time.

The P120C boosters are among the most powerful single-piece motors in production, and the mission uses a 20-meter fairing to house all 32 satellites.

Ariane 6’s industrial process is optimized for horizontal manufacturing across Europe, with components shipped to Cayenne and integrated in BAL using automated tooling for precise assembly.