Ariane 6: Europe's New Rocket Ignites Engine in Historic First (Video)

Europe's Ariane 6 rocket, the next-generation heavy-lift rocket, successfully conducted a four-second hot firing test of its core stage Vulcain 2.1 engine at Europe's Spaceport in French Guiana. The test, overseen by the European Space Agency (ESA), marks a significant step towards the rocket's qualification and eventual launch next year. The rocket used for testing is not intended for flight but is identical to a flight model for testing purposes. The Ariane 6 is set to replace the retired Ariane 5 and is entering the final stages of its test campaign, with a scheduled test for the Vulcain 2.1 engine on October 3. Europe hopes to announce the debut flight date for Ariane 6 by the end of October.