ESA Announces Ariane 6 Inaugural Launch for July 9

The new heavy-lift rocket aims to restore Europe's independent access to space after years of delays.

Ariane 6 will launch from French Guiana, replacing the retired Ariane 5 rocket.
The rocket features a re-ignitable upper stage, allowing multiple missions in one flight.
A wet dress rehearsal is scheduled for June 18 to finalize preparations.
The first flight will carry eight CubeSats and two reentry capsules.
A second launch is planned by the end of 2024, with a goal of ten launches per year.