# Ariane flight VA263

> space launch

**Wikidata**: [Q132444609](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q132444609)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/ariane-flight-va263

## Summary
Ariane flight VA263 is an uncrewed space launch mission operated by Arianespace utilizing the Ariane 6 launch vehicle. The mission involves the deployment of the CSO-3 satellite and originates from the ELA-4 launch pad. It is identified as a specific flight instance within the sequence of Ariane launches, following flight VA262 and preceding flight VA264.

## Key Facts
- **Operator:** Arianespace
- **Launch Vehicle:** Ariane 6 (European launch vehicle)
- **Payload:** CSO-3
- **Launch Site:** ELA-4
- **Mission Type:** Uncrewed spaceflight / Space launch
- **Flight Designation:** VA263
- **Preceding Mission:** Ariane flight VA262
- **Succeeding Mission:** Ariane flight VA264

## FAQs
### Q: What payload was carried on Ariane flight VA263?
A: Ariane flight VA263 carried the CSO-3 satellite as its primary component.

### Q: What launch vehicle was used for the VA263 mission?
A: The mission utilized the Ariane 6, a European launch vehicle class.

### Q: Where did the Ariane flight VA263 launch from?
A: The launch originated from the ELA-4 (Ensemble de Lancement Ariane 4) launch point.

## Why It Matters
Ariane flight VA263 represents a specific operational mission within the broader context of the European space program, specifically highlighting the capabilities of the Ariane 6 launch vehicle. As a mission managed by Arianespace, it contributes to the ongoing sequence of space launches that facilitate satellite deployment for various operational needs. The flight serves as a critical link in the chain of Ariane missions (following VA262 and preceding VA264), demonstrating the continuity of launch services offered by the European operator. By utilizing the ELA-4 infrastructure, the mission underscores the functional readiness of specific ground-based launch facilities designed to support the Ariane 6 platform.

## Notable For
- Being an operational instance of the **Ariane 6** European launch vehicle.
- Deploying the **CSO-3** satellite component.
- Launching from the **ELA-4** facility.
- Being an **uncrewed spaceflight** managed by **Arianespace**.

## Body
### Mission Overview
Ariane flight VA263 is formally classified as a space launch and an uncrewed spaceflight. It is a distinct mission entity within the launch schedule managed by the operator Arianespace. The flight is designated by the identifier VA263.

### Vehicle and Infrastructure
The mission employs the **Ariane 6** launch vehicle, which is defined as a European launch vehicle class. The launch takes place at the **ELA-4** start point, a specific launch infrastructure designed to accommodate this vehicle class.

### Operational Sequence
The flight fits into a specific chronological order of Ariane missions. It directly **follows** Ariane flight VA262 and is **followed by** Ariane flight VA264.

### Payload
The mission is configured to transport and deploy **CSO-3**, which is listed as a distinct part of the launch mission.