# Ariane flight VA261

> space launch

**Wikidata**: [Q132444583](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q132444583)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ariane_flight_VA261)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/ariane-flight-va261

## Summary
Ariane flight VA261 was an uncrewed space launch that took place on July 5, 2023, utilizing the Ariane 5 launch vehicle. Operated by Arianespace, this mission was part of the Ariane 5 rocket series, which is now retired. It followed Ariane flight VA260 and preceded Ariane flight VA262.

## Key Facts
*   **Aliases:** VA261
*   **Launch Date:** July 5, 2023, at 22:00 UTC
*   **Launch Vehicle:** Ariane 5
*   **Operator:** Arianespace
*   **Instance Of:** Space launch, uncrewed spaceflight, Ariane 5
*   **Start Point:** ELA-3
*   **Preceded By:** Ariane flight VA260
*   **Followed By:** Ariane flight VA262
*   **Related Series:** Ariane 5 (a retired rocket series)

## FAQs
### Q: What is Ariane flight VA261?
A: Ariane flight VA261 was an uncrewed space launch conducted on July 5, 2023. It was operated by Arianespace and used the Ariane 5 launch vehicle, which is part of a retired rocket series.

### Q: When did Ariane flight VA261 launch?
A: Ariane flight VA261 launched on July 5, 2023, at 22:00 UTC.

### Q: What rocket was used for Ariane flight VA261?
A: Ariane flight VA261 utilized the Ariane 5 launch vehicle. The Ariane 5 is a retired rocket series of the Ariane family.

### Q: Who operated Ariane flight VA261?
A: Ariane flight VA261 was operated by Arianespace.

## Why It Matters
Ariane flight VA261 holds significance as an uncrewed space launch that contributed to the operational history of the Ariane 5 rocket series, a vehicle now classified as retired. This mission, operated by Arianespace, was part of Europe's sustained effort to provide reliable access to space for various payloads. Launches like VA261 are critical for deploying satellites that support essential global infrastructure, including telecommunications, Earth monitoring, and scientific endeavors. As one of the later flights in the distinguished Ariane 5 series, it represents the continued application of a proven launch system before its eventual full retirement. The successful execution of such complex spaceflights underscores the advanced capabilities in space transportation and ensures the continuity of vital space-based services, reinforcing Europe's position in the global space sector.

## Notable For
*   An uncrewed spaceflight mission.
*   Utilized the Ariane 5 launch vehicle, part of a retired rocket series.
*   Operated by Arianespace.
*   Its specific position in the flight sequence, following VA260 and preceding VA262.

## Body
### Overview of Ariane flight VA261
Ariane flight VA261 is identified as an uncrewed spaceflight and a specific instance of a space launch. It is also classified as an Ariane 5 mission.

### Launch Details
*   **Launch Date:** The mission commenced on July 5, 2023, at 22:00 UTC.
*   **Launch Vehicle:** The launch was carried out using the Ariane 5 rocket. The Ariane 5 is a retired rocket series within the broader Ariane family.
*   **Operator:** Arianespace was the operator responsible for this flight.
*   **Launch Site:** The launch originated from ELA-3.

### Flight Sequence
Ariane flight VA261 is part of a chronological series of Ariane launches:
*   It was preceded by Ariane flight VA260.
*   It was followed by Ariane flight VA262.