Europe bids farewell to Ariane 5 with final rocket launch

Europe's Ariane 5 rocket completed its 117th and final flight, successfully deploying two communications satellites into orbit. However, the retirement of the Ariane 5 leaves Europe without a large satellite launcher until the delayed Ariane 6 becomes operational, likely in 2024. The Ariane 6 program has faced multiple delays, leaving European payloads reliant on American rockets, primarily SpaceX's Falcon 9. The retirement of the Ariane 5 marks a major shift in the international launch marketplace, with Europe facing a launcher crisis and no clear vision beyond 2030. The priority now is to ensure the successful inaugural flight of the Ariane 6, which is expected to be a more cost-effective alternative to meet European and commercial needs.