# Ariane 64

> European launch vehicle

**Wikidata**: [Q135885159](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q135885159)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/ariane-64

## Summary
Ariane 64 is a variant of the Ariane 6 launch vehicle, designed by ArianeGroup and operated by Arianespace. It is a 62-meter-tall rocket with a modular configuration, featuring four P120C solid rocket boosters and two upper-stage engines, making it a medium-lift rocket optimized for payload delivery to geostationary transfer orbit (GTO).

## Key Facts
- **Height**: 62 meters (reference: [CNES](https://cnes.fr/en/projects/ariane-6))
- **Operator**: Arianespace
- **Manufacturer**: ArianeGroup
- **Country of origin**: France
- **Instance of**: Rocket model
- **Subclass of**: Ariane 6
- **Start point**: ELA-4 (European Spaceport, French Guiana)
- **Primary components**:
  - Four P120C solid rocket boosters
  - One LLPM H140 liquid-fueled upper stage
  - Two ULPM H30 liquid-fueled engines
- **Classification**: Medium-lift launch vehicle

## FAQs
### Q: What is the payload capacity of Ariane 64?
A: Ariane 64 is designed to deliver payloads to geostationary transfer orbit (GTO), with specifications optimized for medium-lift missions. Exact payload capacities are detailed in official Arianespace documentation.

### Q: How does Ariane 64 differ from other Ariane 6 variants?
A: Ariane 64 is distinguished by its four P120C solid rocket boosters, while other variants (e.g., Ariane 62) use two. This configuration enhances its lifting capability for GTO missions.

### Q: Where is Ariane 64 launched from?
A: Ariane 64 launches from ELA-4 at the European Spaceport in French Guiana, the same site as previous Ariane rockets.

### Q: Who operates Ariane 64?
A: Ariane 64 is operated by Arianespace, the European launch services provider.

### Q: What is the significance of the P120C boosters in Ariane 64?
A: The four P120C solid rocket boosters provide additional thrust, making Ariane 64 suitable for heavier payloads compared to lighter variants.

## Why It Matters
Ariane 64 is a critical component of Europe’s independent access to space, ensuring the continent’s ability to launch satellites, scientific missions, and other payloads without reliance on foreign providers. Its modular design allows for flexibility in mission profiles, supporting both commercial and scientific objectives. As part of the Ariane 6 family, it represents an evolution in European rocket technology, combining reliability with advanced capabilities. The rocket’s ability to deliver payloads to geostationary transfer orbit (GTO) is particularly valuable for telecommunications and Earth observation satellites. By reducing dependency on foreign launch services, Ariane 64 strengthens Europe’s position in the global space economy.

## Notable For
- **Modular design**: Combines solid and liquid propulsion for versatility.
- **GTO-optimized**: Tailored for geostationary missions, a key market segment.
- **European independence**: Reduces reliance on foreign launch providers.
- **P120C boosters**: Four boosters enhance payload capacity compared to lighter variants.
- **Arianespace operations**: Operated by the European launch services provider.

## Body
### Overview
Ariane 64 is a medium-lift variant of the Ariane 6 rocket, developed by ArianeGroup and operated by Arianespace. It stands 62 meters tall and features a modular configuration, including four P120C solid rocket boosters, one LLPM H140 upper stage, and two ULPM H30 engines. This design enhances its capability for geostationary transfer orbit (GTO) missions.

### Technical Specifications
- **Height**: 62 meters (source: [CNES](https://cnes.fr/en/projects/ariane-6))
- **Boosters**: Four P120C solid rocket boosters
- **Upper stages**: One LLPM H140 and two ULPM H30 engines
- **Launch site**: ELA-4, European Spaceport, French Guiana

### Variants and Comparisons
Ariane 64 is part of the Ariane 6 family, which includes lighter variants like Ariane 62. The 64 variant’s four boosters provide additional thrust, making it suitable for heavier payloads. This modular approach allows for flexibility in mission profiles.

### Operational Role
Ariane 64 is operated by Arianespace, ensuring Europe’s independent access to space. Its GTO-optimized design supports telecommunications and Earth observation satellites, reducing reliance on foreign launch services.

### Future and Significance
As part of Europe’s space strategy, Ariane 64 plays a crucial role in maintaining the continent’s launch capabilities. Its modular design and advanced propulsion systems position it as a key player in the global space economy.

## References

1. [Source](https://cnes.fr/en/projects/ariane-6)