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Ariane 6 rocket launches with 32 satellites for Amazon Leo network Kourou, Feb 12 (AFP) Feb 12, 2026 The most powerful version of Europe's Ariane 6 rocket blasted off Thursday carrying 32 satellites for the Amazon Leo network, which aims to rival Elon Musk's Starlink. The launch from Europe's spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana, on the northeastern coast of South America, is a first for Amazon Leo. US firm Amazon, founded by billionaire Jeff Bezos, is the main commercial partner for the Ariane 6 despite the latter being touted as a symbol of European sovereignty in the sector. To take on Amazon Leo's 32 satellites, the Ariane 6 has been upgraded with four strap-on boosters, instead of the two used on the first five flights. With 175 satellites already in orbit, Amazon Leo aims to expand its constellation to 3,200. Rival Starlink, meanwhile, has nearly 9,400 satellites. neo/ach/rlp |
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